TIp #6: Minimizing the Office Ribbon

The Ribbon is the top navigation bar in Office 2007. It is designed to help you quickly find the commands that you need to complete a task. Commands are organized in logical groups that are collected together under tabs. Each tab relates to a type of activity, such as writing or laying out a page. To reduce screen clutter, some tabs are shown only when they are needed.

Minimize the Ribbon for a Short Time
To quickly minimize the Ribbon, double-click the name of the active tab. Double-click a tab again to restore the Ribbon.

Always Keep the Ribbon Minimized
1. Click the Customize Quick Access Toolbar icon at the top of your screen .
2. In the list, click Minimize the Ribbon.
3. To use the Ribbon while it is minimized, click the tab and all options for that tab will appear.

Restoring the Ribbon
1. Click the Customize Quick Access Toolbar icon.
2. In the list, uncheck Minimize the Ribbon.

Keyboard shortcut: To minimize or restore the Ribbon, press CTRL+F1.
Tip: You can still use the keyboard shortcuts while the Ribbon is minimized.