4 Best Ways to Fix Can’t Type in Microsoft Word

Quick Tips

• Close and reopen Microsoft Word to refresh the application and resolve temporary glitches.
• Make sure you are using the latest version of Microsoft Word. Go to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now.
• Some add-ins may interfere with typing. Disable them by going to File > Options > Add-ins and managing your COM Add-ins.

Preliminary Fixes

• Keep Microsoft Word in Focus: Sometimes, the issue might be as simple as Word not being an active window. Ensure that Microsoft Word is the active window by clicking anywhere inside the document area.
• Get Editing Permission: If the document is in a read-only state or you don’t have the required permissions, you won’t be able to type. You would need to request editing permissions from the owner.
• Check Network Connection: A disrupted network connection can prevent you from typing if you are working on a document stored on a network drive or a cloud service. Check your internet connection by browsing other websites or using network diagnostics tools.
• Check OneDrive Status: If the document is stored on OneDrive, issues with syncing or connectivity can prevent you from typing. Click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray and check the sync status. Resolve any sync issues that appear.
• Force Restart Word: Sometimes, simply restarting Word can resolve temporary glitches. Save any unsaved work and close MS Word. Then, open Microsoft Word again and check if you can type in the document. If the problem persists, try rebooting your computer.

Method 1: Close the Word File on Another Device

Do you have a Word file open on another desktop or Mac? When you launch the same on another device, you may face issues with editing the file. You should close the Word file on another device first and try again.

Method 2: Check the Bluetooth Connection of the Wireless Keyboard

While it’s not directly related to Microsoft Word, you need to still check the Bluetooth connection. If your PC or Mac has Bluetooth connectivity problems, your wireless keyboard can’t connect to it, and you can’t type anything.

You can remove your keyboard from the Bluetooth menu and try to pair it again.

Method 3: Disable Microsoft Word Add-ins

Some of the corrupt or outdated add-ins may interfere with the software. You should remove unnecessary add-ins from the app. Here’s how.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Word and click File at the top-left corner.

Step 2: Select Options.

Step 3: Click Add-ins from the sidebar and select Go.

Step 4: Select unfamiliar add-ons and remove them from Word.

Restart Microsoft Word, open your document, and start making edits without errors.

Method 4: Update Microsoft Word

Step 1: Open Microsoft Word and click File at the top-left corner.

Step 2: Select Account and expand the Update options. Select Update now to install the latest app build.

If you use Word on Mac, update it from the Mac App Store.