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Document Editing Problems

How to Resolve Word Comment Threads Without a Mouse

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is searching for an accessible keyboard shortcut or a keyboard-only workflow to resolve comment threads in Word, which is particularly needed when processing documents with a large number of comments.

Product
Microsoft Word
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Reviewing and resolving numerous comment threads in a document without relying on mouse interactions.
Observed behavior
Microsoft Word currently does not provide a built-in keyboard feature or moderator permission to resolve comment threads through a keyboard-only workflow.
Before you start

Make sure your Microsoft Office suite is updated to the latest version, as accessibility features and keyboard navigation paths can change with newer software releases.

Solution 1Recommended

Submit a Feature Request via Microsoft Feedback

Since Microsoft Word currently lacks a direct keyboard shortcut for resolving comment threads, the official recommendation is to submit a feature request so developers can evaluate and potentially add this accessibility feature.

Product developers rely on user feedback to prioritize new accessibility capabilities. While workarounds like using the Tab key to navigate panes exist, they do not replicate the efficiency of a dedicated shortcut key.

1
Open the Help Menu

Launch Microsoft Word and use the Alt key to access the Ribbon, then navigate to the 'Help' tab.

2
Access the Feedback Pane

Select 'Feedback' from the Help menu options. This will open the feedback pane on the right side of the application window.

3
Submit Your Suggestion

Click on 'I have a suggestion'. Describe your need for a keyboard-only workflow to resolve comment threads, especially for bulk processing, and click submit.

Monitor Your Feedback: Feature requests may take time to be reviewed by the development team. You can monitor the Microsoft Feedback portal for any future updates regarding your submission.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a keyboard shortcut to insert a new comment in Word?

Yes, you can easily insert a new comment without a mouse by pressing Ctrl + Alt + M on Windows or Cmd + Option + M on a Mac.

Can I use VBA macros to create a custom shortcut for resolving comments?

Yes, advanced users can write a VBA macro designed to resolve a selected comment or all comments in a document. Once the macro is created, you can assign it to a custom keyboard shortcut via Word's customization settings.

How can I navigate to the comments pane using only my keyboard?

You can press F6 to cycle through the different window panes in Word until the focus reaches the comments pane. From there, you can use the Tab key and arrow keys to navigate between individual comments.