Resetting User Options and Registry Settings in Word
If Microsoft Word behaves abnormally, resetting it can resolve issues. Although there’s no built-in reset button, here are two effective methods to restore Word’s settings:
1. Running Microsoft’s Easy Fix Wizard
This method is straightforward and recommended for most users. The Easy Fix Wizard resets Word’s user options and registry settings automatically.
Steps:
- Access the Troubleshooting Page
- Go to the Microsoft Troubleshooting page and locate the Here’s an Easy Fix section.
- Download the Wizard
- Click Download and open the application once the download is complete.
- Close Office Applications
- Ensure all Microsoft Office applications are closed before proceeding.
- Run the Wizard
- Follow the on-screen instructions:
- Click Next to start the troubleshooting process.
- Let the Wizard reset Word’s settings.
- Once done, click Close.
- Follow the on-screen instructions:
- Reinitialize Word
- The next time you open Word, it will prompt you to go through the setup process as if it’s newly installed.
2. Manually Reset Using the Registry Editor
For advanced users comfortable with system settings, the Registry Editor can manually reset Word’s options and settings. Warning: Proceed carefully and back up the registry to avoid unintentional issues.
Steps:
- Open the Registry Editor
- Press Windows Key + R, type
Regedt32.exe
, and click OK.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
- Navigate to Word’s Registry Key
- Go to the following path:mathematicaCopy code
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Word\
- Note: The version number (e.g., “16.0”) depends on your Office version:
- Office 2013:
15.0
- Office 2016:
16.0
- Office 2019/Office 365:
16.0
- Office 2013:
- Go to the following path:mathematicaCopy code
- Delete the Key
- Select the Word key.
- Click Edit > Delete from the menu.
- Confirm deletion by clicking Yes.
- Restart Word
- When you relaunch Word, it will guide you through the initial setup process.
Which Method to Choose?
Criteria | Easy Fix Wizard | Registry Editor |
---|---|---|
Ease of Use | Simple, user-friendly | Requires technical knowledge |
Safety | Automated and safe | Risk of registry corruption if misused |
Flexibility | Resets Word-specific settings | Can target specific registry keys |
Recommended For | General users | Advanced users |
For most users, the Easy Fix Wizard is the better choice. Use the Registry Editor only if the Wizard doesn’t resolve the issue or if you need more precise control.