How to Set the Default Message Format in Outlook

There are three message formats to choose from in Outlook, but you shouldn't have to choose your favorite one every time — and you don't have to. Just specify your favorite as your default.

Set the Default Message Format in Outlook

To configure the default format for new emails in Outlook:

• Select File | Options in Outlook.
• Open the Mail category.
• Choose the format you want to use as a default for new emails under Compose messages in this format:.
• Click OK.

Set the Default Message Format in Outlook 2000-2007

To set the default message format in Outlook:

• Select Tools | Options from the menu in Outlook.
• Go to the Mail Format tab.
• Choose the format you want to use as a default for new messages in the Compose in this message format: list.
• Click OK.