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Can a Word Add-In Set the Default Right-Pane Width?
Question details
Developers and users want to know if a default width can be defined for a task pane in a Word add-in so it opens wider automatically.
- Product
- Microsoft Word Add-ins
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Developing or launching a custom Word add-in that requires a wider task pane interface for optimal user experience.
- Observed behavior
- The add-in currently opens at a default fixed width, and there is no visible setting to change this default programmatic behavior.
Ensure you have the latest version of Microsoft Word installed and are signed in to your Microsoft 365 account to access feedback portals if you wish to submit a feature request.
Manually Resize the Task Pane and Submit a Feature Request
Since there is no programmatic setting to define a default width for the Word add-in task pane, users must manually adjust it.
Currently, Word add-ins do not provide a native setting or Office JavaScript API method to define the default width of the right task pane when it opens. The width is determined by the host application.
While developers cannot force a wider pane by default, end-users can manually drag the pane to their desired width. If this feature is critical for your workflow, submitting feedback directly to Microsoft is the best course of action.
Hover your mouse cursor over the left edge of the open add-in task pane until the resize cursor appears, then click and drag to the left to increase the width.
Navigate to the Microsoft 365 Feedback platform to request a programmatic default width feature.
Sign in using either a personal account or a Microsoft 365 work or school account, and detail your specific use case for developers to consider adding this capability.
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- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free version for your operating system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any Office JS API to set the task pane width?
No, the Office JavaScript API currently does not expose a property or method that allows developers to define or alter the default width of the task pane when the add-in launches.
Does the task pane remember its customized width between sessions?
Generally, in Office host applications like Word, the task pane resets to its default width when reopened. Users must manually resize it each time they launch the add-in.
Where can I report missing add-in features to Microsoft?
You can report missing developer features or provide suggestions through the Microsoft 365 Feedback platform by signing in with your Microsoft account.
