Cannot resize row height with mouse

Question

I can select the columns and move them with the mouse without any issues. However, when  I try to move the rows to change their height, they just won't budge. Also, when I move the borders of the outside columns with my mouse, they adjust the entire table. I would like to be able to resize my rows with the mouse *and* resize my outermost columns without resizing the entire table. Any help you can offer is appreciated! Thanks!

Answer 1

If you want to change the width of the first column without changing the overall width of the table, you must drag the right border of that column while holding down the SHIFT key.

If you want to change the width of the last column without changing the overall width of the table, you must drag the left border of that column while holding down the SHIFT key.

In both cases, holding down the ALT key as well provides more control as it causes the column widths to be displayed on the ruler.

Nothing has changed in this respect in the latest version of Word.

Answer 2

Hi E.H.H.,

Do you need our further help?

If the issue persists, could you please send the file to me in PM?

Best Regards,

Gloria

Answer 3

To change the row height, position the mouse cursor until it changes to two parallel lines with vertically opposed arrows as shown in the following screen shot and then click and drag

To resize individual columns without changing the overall width of the table, hold down the SHIFT and ALT keys while dragging.

Answer 4

I suppose it is my fault for not explaining further. I have been using Word, in all of its various incarnations for *eons*. Since MS-DOS 6.0. I am currently using Word 365 on Windows 10 Pro. I have never experienced this issue before, and so I figured I would find out if there was some trick in a recent update or something, seeing as how it is Cloud software and updated at Microsoft's whim. I have adjusted hundreds if not thousands of tables before; I'm a tech writer, it's kind of what we do. Now that you have this context, perhaps you can help me.

1. I have a table. When I drag or Shift+drag the leftmost border of the first column or the rightmost border of the table, the column does not change; the whole table just resizes.
2. When I click and drag a row, it does not move; it just stays put.

Both experiences are very odd to me. I am hoping someone here has experienced these same issues and can shed some light on a solution or workaround. (BTW, I even tried re-creating the table in a fresh doc. No change.)

Thanks in advance.

Answer 5

Hi E.H.H.,

Here is an article for your reference: Resize a table, column, or row

To better understand your situation and provide help for you, please help confirm some information:

1. What are your Office product name and version?

Please capture a screenshot refer to this article: What version of Office am I using?

2. Did you select many rows and change the height with mouse?
3. How about a brand new table? When did the issue start to occur? Could you change the row height before?

Were there any changes made or update prior to the issue occurring?

Best Regards,

Gloria