Formatting Issues

How to Remove a Persistent Line or Underline in Word

Partner Editor Sep 30, 2026 874 views

Question details

The user needs to remove a stubborn horizontal line or underline in a Word document that cannot be selected, deleted, or removed using normal editing methods.

How to Remove a Persistent Line or Underline in Word

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Editing or formatting a document where an unwanted horizontal line or underline appears automatically and remains stuck on the page.
Observed behavior: A persistent line or underline remains on the page and cannot be selected like ordinary text, preventing standard deletion using the Backspace or Delete keys.

Before you start

Before troubleshooting, try to click exactly on the line to see if it is a drawn shape or image. If it can be selected, simply press the Delete key. If it cannot be selected, it is likely a paragraph border or an auto-formatted line.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove Unselectable Lines Caused by Paragraph Borders

Horizontal lines that cannot be selected or deleted normally are often paragraph borders created by the AutoFormat feature.

When you type three hyphens or underscores and press Enter, the word processor automatically converts them into a solid border line. Because this is a formatting style applied to the paragraph rather than an actual drawn shape, you cannot click to select it.

Position your cursor

Click anywhere in the paragraph immediately above the stubborn horizontal line.

Open the Borders menu

Go to the 'Home' tab on the ribbon. In the Paragraph group, look for the 'Borders' button (it usually looks like a square divided into four quadrants).

Select No Border

Click the drop-down arrow next to the Borders button and select 'No Border' from the list. The line should instantly disappear.

Remove Unselectable Lines Caused by Paragraph Borders

Tip for multiple lines: If the line still does not disappear, try selecting the paragraphs both above and below the line, then apply the 'No Border' setting again.

Solution 2

Clear Persistent Underline Formatting

If the line appears directly underneath your text and extends as you type, it is likely an active underline font setting.

Easily Format Documents

Manage Formatting Effortlessly with WPS Writer

WPS Office offers a highly compatible and intuitive word processor that makes adjusting formatting, such as removing stubborn borders or underlines, incredibly easy and hassle-free.

1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open the document containing the persistent line.
2. Select the area: Place your cursor in the paragraph directly above the unwanted line.
3. Remove the border: Go to the 'Home' tab, click the 'Borders' drop-down icon in the Paragraph section, and select 'No Border'.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word formats (.doc, .docx)Intuitive interface for easily managing styles and bordersFree, lightweight, and fast alternative to Microsoft Office

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word automatically create a horizontal line when I type hyphens?

This is caused by the AutoFormat feature. When you type three or more hyphens, underscores, or equal signs and press Enter, Word automatically converts them into a paragraph border to save you time.

How do I stop Word from automatically drawing lines?

You can disable this by going to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options. Under the 'AutoFormat As You Type' tab, uncheck the 'Border lines' option to prevent hyphens from turning into lines.

What if the line is part of a header or footer?

If the line appears at the very top or bottom of every page, it is likely inside the header or footer. Double-click the header or footer area to access it, place your cursor above the line, and apply 'No Border' from the Home tab.

Document & File Issues