When it comes to formatting a document, one of the most crucial elements is the running head. A running head, also known as a header, is a text that appears at the top of each page, usually containing the title of the document, chapter, or section. However, sometimes you may need to change the running head on certain pages, and that’s where things can get tricky. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of running heads and explore the different ways to change them on various types of pages.
Understanding Running Heads
Before we dive into the process of changing running heads, it’s essential to understand what they are and their purpose. A running head is a header that appears at the top of each page, usually in a smaller font size than the main text. Its primary function is to provide context and help readers navigate through the document. Running heads can contain various types of information, such as:
- The title of the document or chapter
- The author’s name or initials
- The page number
- A summary or abstract of the content
In academic writing, running heads are commonly used to provide a brief summary of the research paper or thesis. In business documents, they may display the company’s name and logo.
Why Change the Running Head?
There are several reasons why you may need to change the running head on certain pages. Some of the most common scenarios include:
- Differentiating between sections: If you’re working on a long document, you may want to change the running head to reflect the section or chapter title.
- Including page-specific information: In some cases, you may want to display page-specific information, such as a table of contents or a list of figures.
- Customizing the layout: Depending on the document type, you may need to change the running head to accommodate different layout requirements.
How to Change the Running Head in Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is one of the most popular word processing software, and changing the running head is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Method 1: Using the Header and Footer Tools
- Open your Microsoft Word document and click on the “Insert” tab in the ribbon.
- Click on the “Header” or “Footer” button, depending on where you want to display the running head.
- In the “Header and Footer Tools” tab, click on the “Header” or “Footer” button again.
- Type in the new running head text or edit the existing one.
- Click “Close Header and Footer” to exit the header and footer editing mode.
Method 2: Using Section Breaks
- Place your cursor at the beginning of the page where you want to change the running head.
- Click on the “Page Layout” tab in the ribbon.
- Click on the “Breaks” button and select “Next Page” or “Continuous” depending on your needs.
- In the “Section” tab, click on the “Header” or “Footer” button.
- Type in the new running head text or edit the existing one.
- Click “Close Header and Footer” to exit the header and footer editing mode.
How to Change the Running Head in Google Docs
Google Docs is a popular alternative to Microsoft Word, and changing the running head is just as easy. Here’s how:
Method 1: Using the Header and Footer Tools
- Open your Google Doc and click on the “Insert” menu.
- Select “Header & page number” or “Footer” from the drop-down menu.
- Type in the new running head text or edit the existing one.
- Click “Save” to apply the changes.
Method 2: Using Section Breaks
- Place your cursor at the beginning of the page where you want to change the running head.
- Click on the “Insert” menu and select “Section break”.
- Select “Next page” or “Continuous” depending on your needs.
- In the “Header & footer” section, click on the “Edit” button.
- Type in the new running head text or edit the existing one.
- Click “Save” to apply the changes.
How to Change the Running Head in LaTeX
LaTeX is a typesetting system commonly used in academic writing, and changing the running head requires a different approach.
Method 1: Using the \pagestyle Command
- Open your LaTeX document and add the following code:
\pagestyle{fancy} - Use the
\fancyheadcommand to define the running head:\fancyhead[C]{Running Head Text} - Use the
\fancyheadoffsetcommand to adjust the position of the running head:\fancyheadoffset{0.5in}
Method 2: Using the fancyhdr Package
- Add the following code to your LaTeX preamble:
\usepackage{fancyhdr} - Use the
\pagestyle{fancy}command to activate the fancy header and footer. - Use the
\fancyheadcommand to define the running head:\fancyhead[C]{Running Head Text} - Use the
\fancyheadoffsetcommand to adjust the position of the running head:\fancyheadoffset{0.5in}
Best Practices for Changing Running Heads
When changing the running head, it’s essential to follow some best practices to ensure consistency and readability:
- Use a clear and concise format: Keep the running head text short and to the point, avoiding unnecessary information.
- Use a standard font: Stick to a standard font throughout the document, ensuring consistency and readability.
- Avoid too many changes: Limit the number of changes to the running head to avoid confusion and maintain a clear hierarchy.
Common Issues When Changing Running Heads
Changing the running head can sometimes lead to issues, such as:
- Overlapping text: If the running head text is too long, it may overlap with the main text, causing readability issues.
- Inconsistent formatting: Failing to maintain consistent formatting can lead to a visually unappealing document.
- Header and footer conflicts: Changing the running head can sometimes conflict with the header and footer, resulting in formatting issues.
By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to change the running head on your pages with confidence. Whether you’re working with Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or LaTeX, remember to keep it clear, concise, and consistent to ensure a professional-looking document.
What is a Running Head?
A running head is a brief title that appears at the top of each page in a document, usually in the header section. It is typically an abbreviated version of the main title of the document and is used to provide a quick reference to the reader about the content of the page.
The running head is usually placed in the header section of the page and appears on every page of the document, except for the title page. It is an essential element in academic and professional writing, as it helps readers quickly identify the content of the page and navigate through the document.
Why Do I Need to Change My Running Head in Pages?
You may need to change your running head in Pages if you want to customize the header section of your document. For example, you may want to change the running head to reflect a new title or to match a specific formatting style. Additionally, you may need to change the running head if you are submitting a document to a journal or conference that has specific guidelines for the running head.
Changing the running head in Pages is a straightforward process, and this guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you do so. By changing the running head, you can ensure that your document is properly formatted and meets the required guidelines.
How Do I Access the Header Section in Pages?
To access the header section in Pages, you need to go to the View menu and select “Header and Footer” or use the keyboard shortcut “Command + Shift + H” (on Mac) or “Ctrl + Shift + H” (on PC). This will open the header section, where you can edit the running head and make any necessary changes.
Once you access the header section, you can click on the running head to select it, and then type in the new text or format it as needed. You can also use the formatting tools in the toolbar to change the font, size, and style of the running head.
Can I Have Different Running Heads for Different Sections of My Document?
Yes, you can have different running heads for different sections of your document. In Pages, you can create separate header sections for each section of your document, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion. This allows you to customize the running head for each section to reflect the content of that section.
To create separate header sections, you can use the “Section” tool in the toolbar to create a new section, and then access the header section for that specific section. You can then edit the running head for each section independently.
How Do I Remove the Running Head from the First Page of My Document?
To remove the running head from the first page of your document, you need to create a separate header section for the first page. This is because the first page of your document usually has a title page, which does not require a running head.
To do this, access the header section and click on the “First page is different” checkbox. This will create a separate header section for the first page, which you can then edit to remove the running head.
Can I Use Images or Graphics in My Running Head?
Yes, you can use images or graphics in your running head, but it is not recommended. Running heads are meant to be brief and concise, and images or graphics can make the running head too cluttered. Additionally, images or graphics may not display properly in certain formats or devices.
If you still want to use an image or graphic in your running head, make sure it is small and relevant to the content of your document. You can insert an image or graphic into the header section by using the “Insert” menu or dragging and dropping it into the header section.
How Do I Save My Changes to the Running Head?
To save your changes to the running head, simply click on the “Save” button or use the keyboard shortcut “Command + S” (on Mac) or “Ctrl + S” (on PC). This will save your changes to the running head and apply them to the entire document.
Make sure to save your document regularly as you work on it to avoid losing any changes you make to the running head or other parts of the document. You can also use the “Save As” feature to save a copy of your document with the updated running head.