How to Create a New Document in WordPad

WordPad is the go-to but often forgotten word processing app

Although it is often overlooked as a word processor, WordPad sports several useful features. Learn some easy ways to find and use the application.

Instructions in this article apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

As of January 2020, Microsoft is no longer supporting Windows 7. We recommend upgrading to Windows 10 to continue receiving security updates and technical support.

Launch WordPad Using Search

WordPad in Start search results

If you plan on working with a long list of citations, advanced formatting options, and other features found in full-featured word processors, Word is the go-to application. However, if you are looking for a light and easy to use an application to create and edit documents, WordPad will suffice.

Getting Started With WordPad

In this series of guides, we will become familiar with WordPad and how you can begin using it to edit Word documents and other text-based files.

In this guide, we'll show you how to create a new WordPad document when you open the application and how to create a new document using the File menu.

To create a new document in WordPad all you have to do is launch the application. The simplest method of launching WordPad is to use Windows search.

  1. Select Start.
  2. Enter "WordPad" in the search box.
  3. A list of search results will appear on the Start Menu. Select the WordPad app to launch WordPad.

If WordPad happens to be one of the recent applications used it will appear on the list of applications on the Start Menu, which you can launch by clicking the WordPad icon.

Use WordPad to Work on a Text-Based Document

Blank document in WordPad

Once WordPad launches you will be presented with a blank document that you can use to enter information, format, add images and save to a format that can be shared with others.

Now that you know how to launch WordPad and use the blank document provided, let's explore how you would create another blank document within the WordPad application.

Create a Document in WordPad

File tab in WordPad

If you followed the previous steps you should have WordPad open in front of you. To create a new document in WordPad follow the instructions below.

  1. Select File.
  2. Choose New.

A blank document should open which you will be able to edit.

Alternatively, select File and choose Open to open and edit an existing document.

If you were working on another document and made changes you will be prompted to save the document before you can open a new blank document. Choose a location to save the document and click Save.

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