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How to Troubleshoot Document Comparison Errors in MS Word
Question details
The user needs to identify and resolve an unspecified error that occurs when attempting to compare documents in Microsoft Word 365.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Comparing two document versions that contain complex elements such as linked Excel ranges or embedded objects.
- Observed behavior
- Word displays an error and fails to complete the document comparison, but the exact error text is unavailable or hidden.
Before attempting to troubleshoot, save a backup copy of both original documents. If the error message appears again, take a screenshot or write down the exact text, as this is critical for diagnosing the underlying issue.
Identify and Convert Linked Excel Ranges
Complex embedded objects, specifically linked Excel tables, often cause the document comparison tool to fail. Converting them to standard tables can resolve the issue.
A linked Excel range in Word is an object that updates dynamically when the source workbook changes. While useful for data syncing, these objects often conflict with Word's comparison algorithm.
Scroll through both versions of your document and look for grids, charts, or editable rows and columns that were pasted from Microsoft Excel.
Right-click the table or grid. If it was pasted as a linked object, you will usually see options related to 'Linked Worksheet Object' or 'Update Link'.
If a linked range is found, break the link via the 'File' > 'Info' > 'Edit Links to Files' menu, or copy the data and paste it back into the document as a standard Word table (Keep Text Only or standard grid).
After ensuring all dynamic Excel ranges are converted to static Word tables, save the documents and run the Compare tool again.
Test with Simplified Document Copies
If you cannot find the exact error text, isolating the problematic section by comparing simplified versions of the documents helps pinpoint the error source.
Use WPS Writer to Compare Documents Without Errors
If Microsoft Word struggles to compare documents containing complex tables or objects, you can use WPS Writer to easily complete the task. WPS Office provides a robust comparison tool that handles complex document structures smoothly.
- 1. Open WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office on your device and open WPS Writer.
- 2. Access the Compare tool: Navigate to the 'Review' tab on the top ribbon menu and click on the 'Compare' button.
- 3. Select your documents: In the comparison dialog box, browse and select your Original Document and your Revised Document.
- 4. Adjust comparison settings: Click 'More' to choose whether to compare formatting, tables, or fields, then click 'OK' to start.
- 5. Review the differences: WPS Writer will generate a new document displaying a clear, side-by-side comparison with all tracked changes highlighted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word fail to compare documents with Excel tables?
Word often struggles to compare documents if the Excel tables are pasted as dynamic linked ranges rather than static Word tables. The background data syncing of linked objects can interrupt the document comparison algorithm.
How do I know if an Excel table in my document is linked?
A linked Excel range usually updates automatically when the source workbook is modified. Visually, it appears as an editable grid similar to a Word table, but right-clicking it reveals options for updating links or editing the worksheet object.
Can I compare documents that have drastically different formatting?
Yes, but heavy formatting changes or complex embedded objects can sometimes trigger errors or make the comparison difficult to read. Simplifying the formatting or converting dynamic objects to static text before comparing can yield better, error-free results.
