How to Merge Pictures in Word

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If you don't have access to image processing software, you can use Microsoft Word 2013 to merge some pictures and create interesting effects. You can overlay parts of the images or place smaller pictures over larger ones. By default, you can't merge the images after you import them into your document because their default layout option is "In Line With Text." However, if you select the "Square" option, you can merge the images after you edit them using Word's built-in set of image editing tools.

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Step 1

Click the "Insert" tab after you open the document in Word and click the "Pictures" button in the Illustrations group to display the "Insert Picture" window.

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Step 2

Select the images you want to merge and then click "Insert." You can select several images and import them all at once by holding "Ctrl" and clicking each item. If the images are in different folders, repeat the procedure until you insert all of them into the document.

Step 3

Resize each image by selecting it and then clicking and dragging the handles in its corners. To rotate the image, use the rotation handle at the top of the selected image. Crop an image by selecting it, clicking the "Format" tab under Picture Tools and then clicking the "Crop" button in the Size group. Drag the cropping handles and press "Enter" to crop the image.

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Step 4

Select each image, click the "Layout Options" button that displays near its upper right corner, and click the "Square" icon in the With Text Wrapping section. The Square option allows you to merge the images.

Step 5

Click and drag each image to reposition it. You can place smaller images over larger images or just overlay parts of the images. To bring specific images to the front, select them and click the "Bring Forward" button in the Arrange group on the Format tab. The "Send Backward" button sends the images to the back. You can still edit each image individually until you are satisfied with the results.

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Step 6

Select all images by holding "Ctrl" and clicking each picture or by clicking and dragging with the mouse, select the "Format" tab, click "Group" in the Arrange group and then click "Group." Grouped images act as a single shape, so you can easily move them without changing their position. Press "Ctrl-S" to save the changes.

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