How to Change Commented Text Shading Color in Word
Question details
The user wants to change the default light purple highlight or shading color applied to main document text when a comment is selected.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reviewing and formatting a document that contains modern comments.
- Observed behavior
- Word automatically shades the referenced main document text in light purple for modern comments, and there is no built-in setting to customize this specific shading color.
Verify whether your document is currently using Word's 'Modern Comments' feature or the classic comments view, as formatting capabilities differ between the two.
Revert to Classic Comments to Restore Color Options
Since Modern Comments do not support changing the reference text shading color, disabling them allows you to use older comment formatting features.
Microsoft Word's Modern Comments feature hardcodes the light purple shading to link comments to text visually. Currently, there is no setting or VBA macro to change this specific background color.
If your version of Word still supports it, you can revert to the classic comments interface, which may restore legacy behavior and formatting options.
Click on 'File' in the top left corner of Microsoft Word, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.
In the Word Options dialog box, select the 'General' tab. Scroll down to the 'User Interface options' section and uncheck the box labeled 'Enable modern comments'.
Click 'OK' to save your settings. Close and reopen Microsoft Word to apply the changes and access the classic comments view.
Submit Feature Feedback to Microsoft
Inform Microsoft that you would like the ability to customize modern comment shading colors.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Review and Commenting
If you are frustrated by forced interface changes and formatting limitations in Microsoft Word, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with a familiar interface for managing document comments efficiently.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your .docx file to start reviewing and commenting seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use VBA to change the comment text shading color in Word?
No, VBA macros can only be used to change the font color of the comment text itself. They cannot modify the light purple shading applied to the main document text referenced by modern comments.
Why is my commented text highlighted in light purple?
Microsoft Word introduced Modern Comments, which use a default light purple shading on the main document text to visually link it to the active comment. This color is hardcoded by Microsoft.
Are classic comments still available in newer Word versions?
In many current versions of Word, you can still toggle between Modern and Classic comments by unchecking the 'Enable modern comments' setting under File > Options > General. However, Microsoft may remove this toggle in future updates.
