Office 2007: Minimize the Ribbon

The Ribbon helps you access more of the commands you need, when you need them. But if you want to see the Ribbon only when you need it, you can minimize it so that only the tab names appear all the time. To minimize the Ribbon in any Microsoft Office program, double-click any tab name, or press CTRL+F1. You can also right-click any tab name for the option to minimize the Ribbon.

The Office Ribbon Demystified

Ever wonder, "why did they get rid of menus and toolbars and turn it into a ribbon?" You're not alone. So many people have asked this question, Microsoft created a video to explain.

Office Casual: How to work with the ribbon

Ribbons tie things together. In this instance, the ribbon ties together related tasks. You can also think of each ribbon as a desk caddy. Each with its own slots for related items, such as paper clips, rubber bands, etc. Like things are kept together in a slot and all tied together with a ribbon. D'oh! You put it that way and it makes sense! I just thought Microsoft was trying to make the changes sound "pretty."

If you have about 75 minutes to spare, watch "The Story of the Ribbon" Windows Movie File. I have a whole new appreciation for the wonderfulness of the Ribbon.