Fix Cannot Select or Delete Framed Images in Publisher
Question details
Users are unable to select, change, or delete pictures after applying specific frame styles to them in Microsoft Publisher.
- Product
- Microsoft Publisher 2016
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Editing a publication by inserting pictures and applying picture frame styles.
- Observed behavior
- After applying certain frames (often the first three styles), the image becomes completely unselectable on the canvas and cannot be modified, moved, or deleted.
Before proceeding, save your current publication to prevent any accidental data loss while testing workarounds. It is also recommended to open a new blank file to test if the issue is file-specific.
Use the Selection Pane to Delete the Image
Since the image cannot be clicked directly on the canvas due to the bug, you can use the built-in Selection Pane to target and remove it.
Microsoft Office applications include a Selection Pane that lists all objects on the current page, allowing you to bypass canvas clicking glitches.
On the ribbon, go to the 'Home' tab. Look for the 'Editing' group on the far right, click on 'Select', and choose 'Selection Pane' from the drop-down menu.
In the Selection Pane on the right side of the screen, find the item corresponding to your framed picture (e.g., 'Picture 1'). Click on its name to select it, then press the 'Delete' key on your keyboard.
Test and Avoid Problematic Frame Styles
The unselectable image bug is typically triggered by specific frame styles (usually the first three in the gallery). Identifying them helps you avoid the issue in future designs.
Check Publisher Version and Contact Support
Since this is a known application glitch in certain builds of Publisher 2016, providing your exact version to Microsoft Support can help them address the bug.
Looking for a Bug-Free Layout Tool? Try WPS Office
If formatting bugs in Microsoft Publisher are slowing down your design workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. WPS Writer offers advanced page layout capabilities, rich image formatting tools, and a stable environment for all your document design needs—completely free.
- 1. Open WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and click 'New' to create a blank document for your layout design.
- 2. Insert Your Image: Navigate to the 'Insert' tab and click 'Picture' to upload your image onto the canvas.
- 3. Apply Frames Securely: Select the image, go to the 'Picture Tools' tab, and choose from a wide variety of stable picture borders and effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do pictures become unselectable after applying a frame in Publisher 2016?
This is caused by a known software bug in certain builds of Microsoft Publisher 2016. Applying specific frame styles (frequently the first three in the style gallery) corrupts the object's selection properties on the canvas, preventing users from clicking it.
Does this image framing bug affect all Publisher files?
Yes, testing indicates that the issue is not limited to a single corrupt file. The bug can be reproduced in entirely new, blank publications as long as the problematic frame styles are applied.
Can I use the 'Undo' button to fix the unselectable image?
Yes, if you realize the image has become unselectable immediately after applying the frame, you can press 'Ctrl + Z' or click the Undo button to revert the image to its normal, selectable state.
