If you’re having problems with your Microsoft Word file, here are some straightforward solutions to get you back on track.
Is your Microsoft Office licensed?
First things first, ensure your Microsoft Office suite is licensed. If you're unsure, here's a quick way to check:
Open a new Word document.
If all functions are grayed out and unclickable, your version is likely unlicensed.
Unlicensed Microsoft Office Solutions
If you discover your Microsoft Office is unlicensed, here are some effective solutions:
Request a licensed version: Contact your college or university’s IT department for assistance.
Purchase a license: You can buy a license online or from local retailers.
Use a trial version: Keep in mind that trial versions may have limited features.
Convert to a Google Doc: An unlicensed Word document can be edited by uploading it to Google Docs.
Uploading to Google Docs: A Step-by-step guide
Method 1: Direct upload
Go to ‘My Drive' and click '+ New'.
Choose 'File upload' and select your Word document.
Once uploaded, a notification appears. Click on the document (e.g., Law.docx) to open and edit it in a new window.
This method also works for PDFs.
Method 2: Using a new Google doc
In 'My Drive,' click '+ New' and open a new Google Doc.
Click 'File,' then 'Open.'
In the 'Upload' tab, either drag and drop your Word file or use the 'Browse' button to upload it.
To demonstrate, we've prepared an unlicensed Word document as an example. It's important to note that the document is empty due to its unlicensed status but rest assured, this approach is effective.
Here's a picture to confirm its unlicensed status:
Regardless of your Microsoft Word version, its functionality will be limited. The interface will display greyed-out buttons, rendering it inoperable for typing or editing tasks within the document itself.
Once you add the Word doc, the following will show up:
Once uploaded, the 'Open a file' window closes, showing the newly uploaded file.
This method is also effective for PDFs.
Dealing with Protected View in a Licensed version of Microsoft Word
If you have a licensed version and are still facing issues, it might be due to Protected View settings.
To resolve this, click 'Enable editing' when opening the document:
If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's likely an embedded setting in your device.
Here's how to disable it:
Open Word and click the 'File' tab.
Select 'Options' > 'Trust center' > 'Trust center settings'.
Choose 'Protected view' and uncheck all options.
Click 'OK' to save your changes.
Now, you should be able to edit your document without any hindrances.