Why You Cannot Add Comments to Footnote Text in Word (And How to Fix It)
Question details
Users are unable to insert comments directly into the text area of footnotes or endnotes in Microsoft Word, as the commenting option becomes grayed out or inactive.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reviewing a document collaboratively and attempting to leave specific feedback or notes on the contents of a footnote.
- Observed behavior
- The 'New Comment' button and right-click comment option are disabled when the cursor is placed inside the footnote text.
Ensure your document is in 'Print Layout' view and check the 'Review' tab to confirm that document protection is not enabled, which would restrict commenting globally.
Add the Comment to the Footnote Reference in the Main Body
Since Word restricts commenting inside the footnote itself by design, the official workaround is to attach your comment to the superscript reference number in the main document text.
Microsoft Word's architecture does not support the insertion of comments directly into the footnote or endnote sections. This is a built-in product limitation.
To ensure your feedback is still associated with the correct footnote, you must link your comment to the corresponding in-text citation.
Scroll through the main body of your document and find the superscript footnote reference number associated with the footnote you want to comment on.
Use your mouse or keyboard to highlight the superscript number.
Navigate to the 'Review' tab on the ribbon and click 'New Comment', or simply right-click the highlighted number and select 'New Comment' from the context menu.
Enter your notes regarding the footnote into the comment bubble that appears in the right margin.
Use Track Changes for Inline Footnote Edits
If you need to suggest specific alterations to the footnote text, Track Changes is fully supported within the footnote area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any add-in that allows commenting inside footnote text in Word?
Currently, there are no official add-ins that bypass this core structural limitation in Microsoft Word. You must comment on the in-text reference number.
How can I draw attention to a specific word inside a long footnote if I cannot comment?
As a workaround, you can highlight the specific text inside the footnote using the Text Highlight Color tool on the Home tab, and then leave a general explanatory comment on the reference number in the main text.
Does this commenting limitation apply to endnotes as well?
Yes, Microsoft Word applies the exact same structural restriction to endnotes. You cannot insert comments directly into the endnote text area.
