Fix Normal Cursor Disappeared in Word 2021 on Windows 11
Question details
The user needs to restore the standard text cursor in Microsoft Word 2021 after it changed appearance or vanished due to an accidental trigger.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2021
- Device & OS
- Windows 11
- Scenario
- Typing or using keyboard shortcuts during regular document editing.
- Observed behavior
- The normal text cursor changes its appearance (often looking like a cassette tape) or seems to disappear entirely because macro recording has been activated.
Check the bottom status bar for a small square stop icon or a cassette tape symbol next to your cursor, as this confirms Word is currently recording a macro.
Stop Macro Recording via the Status Bar
This is the quickest way to halt macro recording and immediately restore your normal cursor.
When a macro is being recorded, Microsoft Word places a shortcut button directly on the bottom status bar for easy access. Clicking this button stops the background recording.
Look at the bottom-left corner of the Word window, on the status bar, next to the word count and page number.
Find the 'Macro Recording' button, which appears as a small square icon. Click this button once.
Click anywhere inside your document text to confirm that the cassette tape icon is gone and the normal text cursor has returned.
Stop Macro Recording via the Developer Tab
Use this method if the macro icon is hidden from your status bar and you have the Developer tab enabled.
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- 1. Download the Software: Visit the official WPS website and click the download button for Windows.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my cursor turn into a cassette tape icon?
This specific icon indicates that Microsoft Word is actively recording a macro. It typically happens if you accidentally click the record macro button or press a macro-recording keyboard shortcut while typing.
How do I show the Developer tab if it is hidden?
Right-click anywhere on the empty space of the top ribbon, select 'Customize the Ribbon', and then check the box next to 'Developer' in the right-hand column before clicking OK.
Can I delete the macro I accidentally recorded?
Yes. Go to the Developer or View tab, click on 'Macros', select the macro you just accidentally recorded from the list, and click the 'Delete' button to remove it.
