Adding a line in your Outlook email is a great way to separate sections, highlight important points, or create visual clarity. Whether you’re using Outlook desktop, web, or mobile, the process is quick and easy.
How to Insert a Line in Outlook Desktop App

Using the Horizontal Line Tool
- Open Outlook and start a new email.
- Place the cursor where you want the line.
- Go to the Format Text tab.
- Click Borders → Horizontal Line.
A straight line will appear in your email.
Keyboard Shortcut (For Basic Lines)
- Type three hyphens (—) and press Enter.
- Outlook will automatically insert a solid horizontal line.
How to Insert a Line in Outlook Web (Outlook.com)
- Compose a new email.
- Place the cursor where the line should go.
- Click the Formatting Options (paintbrush icon).
- Choose Insert Horizontal Line from the options.
How to Insert a Line in Outlook Mobile App
Currently, the mobile app doesn’t support inserting horizontal lines directly. As a workaround:
- Type underscores (______) or hyphens (—-) manually.
- You can copy and paste a line from a desktop email if needed.
Customizing the Line in Outlook Desktop
- After inserting the line, right-click on it.
- Choose Format Horizontal Line to adjust width, height, color, and alignment.
FAQs About Inserting Lines in Outlook Emails
Can I customize the line style in Outlook?
Yes, on the desktop version you can adjust width, color, and alignment after inserting the line.
Does the web version offer formatting options for lines?
Basic insertion is available, but customization options are limited compared to the desktop app.
How do I remove a horizontal line in Outlook?
Click the line and press Delete or Backspace.
Can I insert a double or dashed line?
Not directly, but you can customize the line style manually in the desktop app.
Does inserting a line affect email formatting on other devices?
No, horizontal lines are supported and displayed consistently across email clients.
Inserting a line in Outlook emails is a simple but effective way to make your emails more organized and easier to read. Whether you’re on desktop, web, or mobile, following these steps will help you enhance your email layout effortlessly.
