Mail merge on labels

Mail merge on labels! A classic task that can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I'm here to guide you through it.

What is mail merge?

Mail merge is a process that combines a document (like a letter or a label) with a data source (like a spreadsheet or a database) to create multiple copies of the document with different information. In the case of labels, mail merge allows you to print labels with different names, addresses, and other information.

How to do a mail merge on labels:

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you do a mail merge on labels:

Software requirements:

• Microsoft Word (or any other word processing software that supports mail merge)
• A data source (e.g., a spreadsheet or a database)
• A label template (you can create one or use a pre-designed template)

Step 1: Prepare your data source

• Create a spreadsheet or database with the information you want to use for your labels (e.g., names, addresses, phone numbers, etc.).
• Make sure the data is organized in a way that makes sense for your labels (e.g., one row per label).

Step 2: Create a label template

• Open Microsoft Word and create a new document.
• Go to the "Insert" tab and click on "Label" to create a label template.
• Choose the label size and layout you want to use.
• Type in the information you want to appear on the label (e.g., "Name", "Address", etc.).

Step 3: Set up the mail merge

• Go to the "Mailings" tab in Microsoft Word.
• Click on "Select Recipients" and choose "Use an existing list" or "Create a new list".
• If you're using an existing list, select the data source you created in Step 1.
• If you're creating a new list, enter the data manually or import it from a file.

Step 4: Merge the data with the label template

• Go back to the "Mailings" tab and click on "Finish & Merge".
• Choose "Edit Individual Documents" to merge the data with the label template.
• Word will create a new document with the merged data.

Step 5: Print the labels

• Go to the "Print" tab and select "Print" to print the labels.
• Make sure to select the correct printer and paper settings for your label printer.

Tips and variations:

• Use a label template with a table to make it easier to merge the data.
• Use conditional formatting to highlight specific information (e.g., bolding names or addresses).
• Use a database or spreadsheet to store and manage your data, and then import it into Microsoft Word for the mail merge.
• Use a label software like Avery Design & Print or Labeljoy to create and print labels with ease.