How to Create a Menu in Microsoft Publisher

By Tricia Goss

Microsoft Publisher is an Office application that just doesn’t seem to be as popular as its sibling Word. But Publisher can help you create publications that you would be proud to show off. If you feel intimidated by Publisher, try this project. You can create a menu for your next dinner party, for your children to play “restaurant” with, or just use it to impress your family one night. When you learn some of the nifty things you can do with Publisher, don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking for more projects.

Open Publisher by clicking the shortcut icon on your desktop or task bar, if you have one. Otherwise, you can open it by clicking on "Start," pointing to "Programs" or "All Programs" and finding Publisher in your "Programs" list. It will probably be in the Microsoft Office sub menu.

Click the arrow next to "Publications for Print" in the "New Publication" task pane. In the "New from a Design" box, scroll down and click on "Menus." You will be given a choice of "Regular," "Take Out," "Daily Special" and "Wine/Dessert" menus. Click on the choice that best suits what you want to create.

Choose a "Size" and "Copies per Sheet," if applicable, in the task pane. Depending on which menu you have selected you may be able to choose from a quarter or full page, or even multiple copies per sheet.

Play with the "Publication Design" options. In the "Apply a Design" box, scroll down and click on any designs you think you might enjoy. Once you click on it, your menu will have that design applied. If you like it, keep it. If not, you can click "Edit" in the toolbar and then click on "Undo Wizard Action" to revert to your previous design.

Add your menu items and descriptions in the text boxes provided. When you have customized your menu, click the "Print Preview" button on your toolbar--it looks like a magnifying glass on a piece of paper. This will allow you to view all the pages of your menu. When you are happy with how it appears, print and enjoy.

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