Document Editing Problems

How to Allow Users to Add Comments in a Restricted Word Form

Partner Editor Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs a method to allow respondents to leave comments or feedback in a Word form that is currently protected for form filling.

How to Allow Comments in a Restricted Word Form

Product: Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Distributing a fillable document where users need to answer form fields but also require the ability to add side comments or general feedback.
Observed behavior: When a document is restricted using the 'Filling in forms' protection type, the native commenting feature in Word is completely disabled.

Before you start

Ensure your Developer tab is enabled in the ribbon, as you will need access to Content Controls to adjust the document's form and restriction settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Add a Dedicated Text Form Field or Content Control

Instead of relying on the native comment feature, provide a designated space within the form itself where users can type their feedback.

Because strict form restriction blocks native comments, the most reliable workaround is to build a comment section directly into the document layout before locking it.

Insert a content control

Place your cursor at the end of the form where you want the comment section. Go to the Developer tab and click 'Rich Text Content Control' or 'Plain Text Content Control'.

Label the field

Add a text heading such as 'Comments/Feedback' right above the newly inserted content control to guide the respondents.

Apply form protection

Go to the Developer tab, click 'Restrict Editing', check 'Allow only this type of editing in the document', select 'Filling in forms', and click 'Yes, Start Enforcing Protection'. Users can now type their comments directly into the designated field.

Add a Dedicated Text Form Field or Content Control

Tip: Using a Rich Text Content Control allows users to format their feedback (e.g., bolding or highlighting text) even while the rest of the document is locked.

Solution 2

Use Content Controls with Grouping Protection

Bypass the strict 'Filling in forms' restriction by using Content Controls and grouping the document text, which keeps native commenting active.

Create Fillable Forms Easily

Create Fillable Forms and Collaborate with WPS Writer

WPS Writer provides an intuitive Developer tab to easily build fillable forms using text fields, checkboxes, and drop-down lists. You can manage document protection seamlessly while allowing your team to collaborate and provide feedback.

1. Enable Developer Tools: Open WPS Writer, go to Menu > Options > Customize Ribbon, and check the 'Developer' tab to make it visible.
2. Insert Form Fields: Click the Developer tab and use the 'Text Form Field' icon to add fillable spaces, including a dedicated box for user comments.
3. Restrict Editing: Click 'Restrict Editing' on the Review tab, set it to allow 'Filling in forms', and apply a password to secure your document structure.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word document formats (.docx)Easily insert text fields, checkboxes, and drop-down menus to create custom formsIntuitive Restrict Editing features to securely protect formsLightweight, fast, and free to use for daily document processing

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 'New Comment' button grayed out in a restricted Word form?

When a document is protected using the 'Filling in forms' restriction, all other editing features, including native commenting on the Review tab, are intentionally disabled to maintain the structural integrity of the form.

Can I restrict only parts of a Word document for form filling?

Yes. By inserting Continuous Section Breaks into your layout, you can restrict specific sections of the document to 'Filling in forms' while leaving other sections unprotected. In the unprotected sections, users can freely edit text and add native comments.

How do I show the Developer tab to add form fields?

Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon. In the right-hand column under Main Tabs, check the box next to 'Developer' and click OK. The Developer tab will now appear on your top ribbon menu.

Do legacy form fields support native comments?

No. Legacy form fields require the strict 'Filling in forms' protection to function properly, which inherently blocks document comments. If you need commenting functionality, switching to modern Content Controls is highly recommended.

Document & File Issues