How to Change Microsoft Word to Light Mode

Working long hours on your computer can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. Staring at bright screens in a dark room forces your eyes to work harder to see. This is why many people prefer light mode over dark mode for better readability.

Microsoft Word’s default setting is typically a bright white background for documents and interface elements like the ribbon. However, you can easily change to light mode to give your eyes a break.

What is Light Mode?

Light mode, also known as positive polarity, refers to black text on a white background. It’s the classic and most common color scheme used in Word documents and other Office apps.

Compared to dark mode, light mode is designed to work better during daylight hours or in bright environments. With more ambient light, your pupils don’t need to dilate as much to focus on the screen. This makes it easier for your eyes to digest the information.

Benefits of Using Light Mode in Word

Here are some of the biggest advantages of using Word in light mode:

Reduces eye strain – With black text on white, there is higher contrast and less glare. This prevents squinting and discomfort.

Better readability – Especially for those with astigmatism or other vision conditions, light mode enhances clarity.
Increased productivity – Due to less strain and fatigue, you can work comfortably for longer periods.
Promotes wakefulness – Bright white screens help stimulate alertness so you feel more awake.

How to Switch Microsoft Word to Light Mode

It only takes a few seconds to change Word from dark mode to light mode. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Open Microsoft Word on your Windows or Mac computer.
Click on the File tab in the top-left corner.

Select Account from the left sidebar.
Under Office Theme, use the drop-down menu to choose White.
Click OK to apply the changes.

That’s all there is to it! The colors will update to the classic black and white scheme. All documents will now open in light mode as well.

Alternatively, you can go to File > Options > General and select the Office Theme > White from there.

Customizing Word’s Light Mode

You have options to further customize Word’s light mode experience:

Change system accent colors
Set a custom background pattern or picture
Modify theme fonts and font sizes

Alter paragraph spacing and margins

Try different configurations to create optimal viewing and reading comfort.

For example, increasing font size can make long documents easier to parse for those with presbyopia. And using familiar fonts like Arial or Times New Roman have been shown to aid reading comprehension.

Using Light Mode System-Wide

For maximum eye relief, enable light mode across all your computer programs and operating system.

On Windows 10 and 11, go to Settings > Personalization to pick a light theme. Mac users can navigate to System Preferences > General and select Appearance > Light.

With just a couple of clicks, you can apply the same relaxing light mode view on apps like Outlook, Excel, browsers, and more.