How to Insert a Word File into a Different Word Document

Need to combine two Word documents without copy-pasting everything? Whether you’re building a report, merging notes, or inserting a reusable template, Microsoft Word makes it easy to insert a Word file into another.

Here’s a quick guide to do it right—step by step.

Method 1: Use the “Insert Object” Feature

This is the simplest and most reliable method, especially if you want to insert the entire content of another Word file.

Step-by-Step:

1. Open your main Word document.
2. Place your cursor where you want to insert the other file.
3. Go to the Insert tab on the ribbon.
4. Click Object (in the “Text” group, usually near the right).
5. Choose Text from File.
6. Browse and select the Word file you want to insert.
7. Click Insert.

That’s it. The contents of the second file will be dropped exactly where your cursor was.

Bonus Tip:

This method keeps formatting mostly intact, but if the inserted document has different styles, you might need to adjust formatting afterward.

Method 2: Insert as an Embedded Object

If you want to embed the second file (so readers can open it separately by double-clicking), use this method instead.

Here’s how:

1. Place your cursor where you want the file inserted.
2. Go to the Insert tab.
3. Click Object, then select Object from the dropdown.
4. In the dialog box, go to the Create from File tab.
5. Click Browse, select the file, and click Insert.
6. (Optional) Check Display as icon if you want it to appear as a clickable icon.
7. Click OK.

Now the Word file is embedded, not just merged in. This is ideal when sharing documents where the inserted file is meant to be accessed, not just read inline.

Method 3: Copy and Paste (with a Twist)

Yes, good old copy and paste can still work—especially if you only need part of the other document. But here’s the trick: use “Keep Source Formatting” when pasting to preserve the look and feel.

Quick steps:

1. Open the source Word file.
2. Select the content you want.
3. Copy it (Ctrl+C).
4. Switch to the destination document.
5. Place your cursor and right-click where you want to paste.
6. Choose the Paste Options icon and click Keep Source Formatting.

This gives you the most control over what gets transferred and how it looks.

Wrapping Up

Whether you want to fully merge documents or simply attach a file, Microsoft Word gives you multiple ways to do it. The best method depends on how you want the final document to behave—inline content, embedded file, or editable snippet.

If you work with Word often, mastering these insert options will save you a ton of time and frustration.

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Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!