Page Breaks
A page break moves following content to the next page without by itself creating a new formatting section. Word inserts automatic breaks as text flows and also supports manual page breaks; this is distinct from the section-break job already covered separately.
Use a page break when content must start on a new page but the document’s section-level formatting should remain the same. Use a section break instead when layout, numbering, headers or other section settings must change.
Key details
Important caveats
Section Boundary
A page break changes pagination, not section-level formatting. Use a section break when headers, footers, columns, orientation or numbering need a new section boundary.
Tool Boundary
Page-break commands and display behavior are software features; the cited implementation details apply to Word.
Further guidance
Automatic Manual
Word creates automatic page breaks as content flows; insert a manual page break when you intentionally need the next content to begin on a new page.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Insert a page break in Word (opens in a new tab)Microsoft Support · Manual versus automatic page-break behavior in Word