What happens to documents created in an earlier

version of Word?
Documents created in an earlier version of Word will open in compatibility mode in
Word 2013 and [Compatibility Mode] will be displayed to the right of the file name in
the title bar. This mode will maintain the previous file format and layout. To convert
the document to the new file format, click the File tab and then on the Info page, click
the Convert button.

However, if you have a document that contains tables, graphics, multiple columns,
or a more complex layout, it’s recommended that you create a backup copy of your
document prior to converting it, or choose to not convert the document and continue
to use compatibility mode.

SEE ALSO For more information on sharing documents that you create in Word 2013 with
an earlier version of Word, see Chapter 10, “Finalizing documents.”

132    Chapter 5 Getting comfortable in Word 2013