Correct Answer:
B. 12 pt
The correct answer is 12 pt—but only in specific contexts. There is no single universal default font size for all versions of Microsoft Word. The answer depends on the version and operating system:
- Word 2007–2024 (Windows) & Microsoft 365 (Windows): The default font is Calibri at 11 points. This replaced the older 12‑point standard when Office 2007 was released.
- Word for Mac (Office 365 / 2021 / 2024): The default is Calibri at 12 points—which is why many textbooks and older quiz databases still cite 12 pt.
- Older Windows versions (Word 2003 and earlier): The default was Times New Roman at 12 points. This is the historical standard that most people remember.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- 9 pt: Too small; used for footnotes or captions, never as the default body text.
- 14 pt: Typically used for headings, not for normal paragraph text.
- 11 pt: This is correct for modern Windows versions, but since the question explicitly references the classic/Normal template (which historically used 12 pt) and the given correct answer is 12 pt, this is the best fit for that context.
In summary: If your course or exam refers to classic Word (pre‑2007) or Word for Mac, 12 pt is the expected answer. For modern Windows versions, the correct default is 11 pt.