When Word stops working as expected, start with the shortest official checks before you reinstall anything.
Problem Description: Scrolling Through Comments Word
Scrolling Through Comments in Word Reviewing Pane Causes Crash (Not File-specific) is the issue affecting Word. The problem affects Office Apps Crashing and requires a focused, scenario-specific resolution.
Quick Answer for Word Won't Complete Task
Word problems are commonly caused by add-ins, damaged preferences or templates, outdated builds, unavailable resources, or a corrupted installation. Start with low-risk tests before applying a broader repair.
Likely Causes Behind Common Office Apps Crashing Triggers
The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.
Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger office apps crashing.
A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.
Recommended Solution: Installing Word on a New PC
When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.
Update your graphics driver first.
Open Settings > Windows Update > Update history and look under Driver Updates for a recent display/graphics entry a silently installed driver update is a common trigger and lines up with your "recent change" theory.
Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
Select Add desktop app and add winword.exe (typically C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\winword.exe).
Select winword.exe in the list in GPU preference choose a different adapter than the one it's defaulting to.
Restart Word and test the pane.
Alternative Solutions for Broader Office Apps Crashing Workarounds
Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.
Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.
Run Quick Repair, then Online Repair from Programs and Features if the app still fails.
Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.
Working with WPS Office: Using WPS While Word Is Unavailable

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.
Download and install WPS Office from the official website.
Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.
Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.
Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.
If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Repeat Office Apps Crashing
Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.
Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.
Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.
Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.
FAQs About Scrolling Troubleshooting FAQ
Can WPS Office fix this office apps crashing issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.
Should I reinstall Word before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.
What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.




