Fix Word for Mac Preferences Dialog Cut Off or Not Scrolling
Question details
The General Preferences dialog in Word for Mac is truncated, preventing users from accessing or scrolling to options below the Co-authoring section.
- Product
- Microsoft Word for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Accessing and modifying settings within the General Preferences dialog.
- Observed behavior
- The dialog box is visibly cut off at the bottom and lacks a scrollbar, hiding several preference options from the user interface.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection before proceeding, as resolving this bug requires downloading software updates through Microsoft AutoUpdate.
Update Microsoft Word to Version 16.57 or Later
Since this is a known UI bug in version 16.56, updating to a newer build is the primary way to restore the full Preferences dialog.
Microsoft frequently releases patches to address interface bugs. Updating your application to the newest stable release will restore the missing settings and scroll capability.
Open Word for Mac, click on 'Help' in the top menu bar, and select 'Check for Updates'.
In the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool, click the 'Check for Updates' button to search for version 16.57 or higher.
Click 'Update' next to Microsoft Word. Once the installation is complete, restart the application and open the Preferences dialog to verify the fix.
Switch to the Current Channel (Preview) or Beta
If the standard update is not yet available for your region, switching to an early-release channel can provide an immediate patch.
Try WPS Office as a Seamless Alternative for Mac
Tired of dealing with UI bugs and update glitches in Word for Mac? WPS Office offers a highly compatible, lightweight, and completely free alternative for your document processing needs on macOS.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the macOS version.
- 2. Install and open: Follow the installation prompts, launch WPS Office, and open your existing .docx files instantly.
- 3. Customize preferences: Navigate to the settings menu to easily adjust your preferences without any cut-off dialog boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Word for Mac Preferences dialog cut off?
This is a known user interface bug specific to Microsoft Word for Mac version 16.56. In this version, the dialog window incorrectly lacks a scrollbar and truncates options below the Co-authoring section.
Will I lose my custom settings if I update Word for Mac?
No, updating your Microsoft Office suite through the AutoUpdate tool will safely preserve your existing custom settings, macros, and preferences.
How do I report Mac Office bugs to Microsoft?
You can report UI bugs by clicking the 'Help' menu in Word for Mac and selecting 'Feedback'. Be sure to include details about the cut-off dialog, as well as your specific macOS and Word version numbers.
