How to Permanently Change the Default Font in Microsoft Word

When you create a new blank document in Microsoft Word, it automatically applies the default “Normal” style. Historically, this meant your document would be formatted in 11-point Calibri. Recently, Microsoft updated their default font to Aptos. However, if your corporation requires all external communications to be drafted in 12-point Arial, or if you simply prefer typing in Times New Roman, changing the font dropdown every single time you press Ctrl + N is a frustrating waste of time. To streamline your workflow, you must permanently change the default font settings for the Normal template.

How to Change the Default Font Family and Size

To ensure every future document you create utilizes your preferred typography automatically, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Word and create a new, blank document.
2. Look at the main ribbon menu at the top of the screen and ensure you are on the Home tab.
3. Locate the “Font” section (where you normally see the font dropdown and bold/italic buttons). Look for the tiny square icon with a downward-pointing arrow in the very bottom-right corner of this section.
4. Click that tiny icon to open the advanced Font dialog box. (Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + D).
5. In the dialog box, scroll through the “Font” list and select your desired font family (e.g., Arial or Times New Roman).
6. In the “Size” list, select your preferred default size (e.g., 12).
7. You can also adjust the Font Style (e.g., Regular vs Bold) or the default font color if necessary.
8. Once your settings are correct, look at the very bottom-left corner of the dialog box and click the Set As Default button.

Saving Changes to the Normal Template

After clicking “Set As Default,” Microsoft Word will present you with a crucial warning prompt asking how you want to apply this change.

1. You will see two radio button options.
2. The first option says, “This document only.” Do not select this, as it defeats the purpose of the exercise.
3. Select the second option: All documents based on the Normal template.
4. Click the OK button to finalize the change.

By selecting the second option, you have successfully overwritten the master template. Now, close the document (you do not need to save it). The next time you open Microsoft Word and start a blank page, your cursor will immediately default to your newly selected font and size.