How to use printing preferences in Windows

Before you print, check your printing preferences!

Set printing preferences

Printing preferences are settings like duplexing, orientation, color, and print quality. Here’s how to review and change them.

  1. In the program you’re printing from, such as Word, click File > Print.
  2. Near the name of the printer should be a button or link named something like Printer Properties, Properties, or Preferences. This varies from program to program.
  3. The printing preferences window often has several tabs containing several options. The options vary by program and printer.
  4. When you finish changing the preferences, click OK and print your file!

Recommended printing preferences

  • Print duplex (double-sided) to save paper.
  • Print grayscale or monochrome (black and white) to save on the cost of color.
  • Lower the print quality to save ink or toner.

Printing Shortcuts

Some printers allow you to create printing shortcuts. You can save time by saving several options into a single shortcut.

  1. Open the printing preferences window, as described above.
  2. On the Printing Shortcuts tab, click a shortcut to use as your starting point.
  3. Click through the tabs and set options as desired.
  4. On the Printing Shortcuts tab, click Save As. Type a name for the new shortcut.
  5. Click OK.

Your new shortcut will be added to the list, for you to select in the future.

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4 comments on “How to use printing preferences in Windows”

  1. HI

    I TRIED CREATING printing shortcuts and saved it for future use.
    But i am unable to see the saved prefernces when open it again.
    can u suggest me soem options

    thanks
    jai

    1. Sorry JAYAKUMAR, I've never seen that before. Depending on the type of printer, you'll need to select the settings you want, then type in a name for the shortcut, then click Save. If the shortcut isn't there after you close and reopen the window, there may be another problem. I'd uninstall and reinstall the printer, then try again.

  2. why does my portrait and landscape mode keep appearing and disappearing on my HP office jet pro 8035e printer. I need help...tried everything.

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