Complex tables with a different number of columns in some rows or a different number of rows in some columns have traditionally been hard to create on your computer. But you can use the Draw Table tool in Word to make complex tables the easy way — by drawing them.

A different way to make a table

Think of the Draw Table tool as a pencil that you can use to sketch a table on paper, and you're halfway to creating a complex table in Word. Click Draw Table on the Table menu, and then use the Draw Table tool to draw a table directly in your document. After you draw a table, you can change column width or row height to a specific measurement, or you can resize the entire table.

To see how to use the Draw Table tool, click Start in the Draw Table Tool Demo window.

Make a mistake? Just erase.

Use the Eraser tool to quickly erase errors or make changes. To use the Eraser tool, click Eraser on the Tables and Borders toolbar.

To see how to use the Eraser tool, click Start in the Eraser Tool Demo window.

When you finish creating the table, click a cell, and then either start typing or insert a graphic.