Microsoft Word’s built-in spell checker is a useful tool for catching typos and grammar mistakes while writing. However, sometimes the spell check feature stops working properly. Here are the most common reasons the spell checker fails and how to get it working again.
Verify Spell Check is Enabled
The first thing to check is that spell check is actually turned on in Word.
To enable spell check:
- Click the File tab > Options > Proofing
- Check the box for Check spelling as you type
- Check the boxes for Mark grammar errors and Check grammar with spelling
Set the Correct Proofing Language
If spell check is on but not catching errors, the language may be incorrectly set.
To set the proofing language:
- Click Review > Language > Set Proofing Language
- Choose the desired language from the list
- Click OK
If your language doesn’t appear in the list, click Add a language to install the proofing tools.
Check for Spelling Exceptions
Word allows you to exclude certain documents from being spell checked.
To remove exceptions:
- Go to File > Options > Proofing
- Under Exceptions for:, uncheck any boxes related to hiding spelling or grammar errors
- Click OK
Disable Conflicting Add-ins
Add-ins can sometimes disrupt spell check functionality. To test for interfering add-ins:
- Hold down CTRL while opening Word to start in safe mode
- Try the spell checker – if it works properly in safe mode, an add-in is likely the culprit
- Under File > Options > Add-ins, disable non-Microsoft add-ins one-by-one until you find the conflicting one
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
- Restart Word and your computer
- Use the Office Repair Tool to fix corrupt files
- Check that your documents are saved on a local drive, not cloud storage
- Try the Word web app at office.com
- Install the Grammarly add-in for an alternate spelling and grammar check tool
Following these troubleshooting steps should get Microsoft Word’s spell checker working again so you can catch mistakes while writing. Let your ideas flow without being distracted by typos!
Formatting Tips for Readability
Here are some formatting best practices to make your Word documents easier to read:
Use Headings
Break up sections with descriptive headings. Use Heading 1 for the article title, Heading 2 for main sections, and Heading 3 for subsections.
Short Paragraphs
Keep paragraphs short, around 3-5 sentences. Start a new paragraph whenever you introduce a new idea.
Lists
Use bulleted lists for quick scannable points instead of long paragraphs.
Bold Key Terms
Bold important keywords and phrases for easy skimming.
Images
Include images, charts, or diagrams to illustrate complex points.
Text Color
Use a dark text color that contrasts well with the page background.
Font Choice
Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri in 11 or 12 pt size. Avoid fancy script and display fonts.
Margins
Keep adequate margins on all four sides for better readability. One-inch margins are typical.
Following these best practices will help ensure your Word documents are readable, professional, visually appealing, and easy to scan. Proper formatting is just as important as the writing itself.
