Microsoft Word is one of the most popular word processing programs in the world. Known for its user-friendly interface and robust features, Word helps users create professional documents with ease. But did you know that before Word was available for Windows, it was first released for the Apple Macintosh in 1985?
Word for Mac has a long history and continues to be a top choice for Mac users today. In this article, we’ll explore what exactly Word for Mac is, its standout features, how it differs from the Windows version, and more. Whether you’re considering purchasing Word for your Mac or are just curious to learn more, read on for an informative guide.
What is Microsoft Word for Mac?
Microsoft Word for Mac is the MacOS version of Microsoft’s industry-leading word processing software. First launched over 35 years ago, Word for Mac allows users to easily create, edit, format, review, and share documents on Mac computers.
At its core, Word for Mac provides users with the fundamental tools needed for word processing:
- A text editor for typing text
- Formatting tools for changing fonts, sizes, paragraph alignment, indents, colors, and more
- Review tools like spell check and grammar check
- Insertion options for tables, images, shapes, charts, and other objects
- Page layout and print functionality
Beyond basic features, Word for Mac also includes more advanced capabilities like:
- Styles for quickly formatting titles, subtitles, quotes, etc.
- Outlining and section breaks
- Table of contents and index generation
- Footnotes and endnotes
- Comments and track changes for collaboration
- Templates for letters, invoices, reports, and other documents
With this robust set of features, Word for Mac empowers users to create polished, professional documents for a variety of purposes.
How Word for Mac Differs from the Windows Version
Since the first release of Word for Mac in 1985, it has shared much of its core DNA with the Windows version. However, there are some key differences that Mac users should be aware of.
Some notable differences include:
- No full integration with SharePoint or Visual Basic: Word for Mac has limited integration with SharePoint and lacks the full Visual Basic editor.
- No ActiveX support: ActiveX is not supported on MacOS.
- No digital ink features: The digital drawing and inking tools are missing.
- No Document Inspector feature: The tool to inspect and remove hidden personal data is unavailable.
- No embedded fonts: Word for Mac documents cannot contain embedded fonts.
Additionally, until recently Word for Mac used a different underlying code base than Windows Word. This sometimes led to feature and compatibility gaps between the two versions.
However, Microsoft has invested significant engineering resources in Word for Mac over the past several years. The latest releases boast much improved compatibility and parity with key Windows Word features.
Getting Word on a Mac Computer
If you own a Mac and want to start using Word, getting set up is quick and easy. Here are a few ways to obtain Word for Mac:
- Subscribe to Microsoft 365: Microsoft 365 provides the latest version of Word for Mac, 1TB of OneDrive storage, and other benefits through an annual subscription. It can be purchased and downloaded directly from Microsoft.
- Purchase a one-time license for Office 2021 for Mac: This option involves paying a single upfront cost for a perpetual license. However, it won’t receive new features over time.
- Download Word from the Mac App Store: You can download Word for Mac as a stand-alone app from the App Store. Like Microsoft 365, it requires a paid subscription.
- Use Office Online: Office Online provides free, web-based access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office apps. However, it has reduced functionality compared to full-featured desktop apps.
No matter which avenue you choose, Word for Mac delivers the core word processing capabilities that Mac users need for school, work, and everyday projects.
Top 5 Benefits of Using Word on a Mac
Why should Mac users consider using Word instead of Apple’s Pages app or other word processors? Here are five of the most compelling benefits:
- Industry-leading compatibility: Word’s .DOC and .DOCX formats are globally recognized standards. You can confidently share Word documents with PC users.
- Powerful features for advanced documents: Tools like mail merge, macros, reference management, and more go beyond basic word processing.
- Familiar user interface: The ribbon UI used by Word for Windows is also implemented in the MacOS version, easing transitions between operating systems.
- Access to other Microsoft Office apps: Using Word alongside Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook integrates seamlessly, enabling more productivity features.
- Free online collaboration: Save documents to OneDrive to share them with others and collaborate on content in real-time.
For these reasons and more, Word for Mac is the chosen word processor in many homes, schools, and offices around the world. It empowers users to create their best work and collaborate efficiently.
Conclusion
Microsoft Word began its journey on the Mac over 35 years ago and remains a key part of many Mac users’ software toolkits today. With robust features, seamless Microsoft 365 integration, and continually improving support for MacOS capabilities, Word for Mac is stronger than ever.
Hopefully this overview has provided helpful context on what exactly Word for Mac is, how it differs from the Windows version, and its most important benefits for Mac device owners. By understanding what the software has to offer, you can make an informed decision about making it part of your everyday productivity toolkit.
Whether you’re writing the next great novel, putting together client proposals, or simply trying to keep your personal admin organized, Microsoft Word for Mac has all the features you’ll need.
