Office Settings & Configuration

Fix Word Requires Releasing Alt Key for Shortcuts in Microsoft 365

John Wilson Oct 13, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users find they need to release the Alt key before pressing the second key when using legacy keyboard shortcuts in Word, rather than holding them simultaneously.

How to Resolve Microsoft Word Requiring Alt Key Release for Shortcuts

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to use legacy keyboard shortcuts (such as Alt+I) to trigger commands in Microsoft Word.
Observed behavior: Word fails to recognize the shortcut if the Alt key is held down while pressing the second key; it strictly requires the Alt key to be pressed, released, and then followed by the next key.

Before you start

Verify that your Microsoft 365 installation is fully up to date, as Microsoft continuously adjusts shortcut behaviors and keystroke delays in newer application builds.

Solution 1Recommended

Submit Feedback to Microsoft and Adapt to the New Shortcut Delay

Since this reflects a known behavior change in Microsoft 365 for legacy shortcuts, resetting templates will not work. The best action is to adapt your keystrokes and report the issue directly to the product team.

Many users have observed that Microsoft 365 recently altered how it processes legacy shortcut sequences, such as Alt+I. Instead of allowing simultaneous key presses, the system now requires you to insert a slight delay or completely release the Alt key before striking the second key.

Standard troubleshooting steps, such as deleting or resetting the Normal.dotm template, are unlikely to resolve this specific behavior since it is embedded in the software update itself.

Open Microsoft Word

Launch the Microsoft Word application on your desktop and open any new or existing document.

Navigate to the Feedback menu

Click on 'File' in the upper-left corner of the window, then select 'Feedback' from the bottom of the left sidebar. Alternatively, you can click on the 'Help' tab in the ribbon and choose 'Feedback'.

Submit your report

Select 'I Don't Like Something' from the feedback options. Describe how the legacy Alt-key shortcuts require a release before the second keystroke and explain how it impacts your workflow. Click 'Submit' so Microsoft can investigate the issue.

Submit Feedback to Microsoft and Adapt to the New Shortcut Delay

Workaround for Legacy Shortcuts: While waiting for Microsoft to address this feedback, you can bypass the frustration by pressing the Alt key once, completely releasing it, and then pressing the target key to trigger your familiar shortcuts.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience Smooth and Reliable Keyboard Shortcuts with WPS Office

If changing shortcut behaviors in Microsoft 365 disrupt your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, lightweight, and completely free alternative where traditional keyboard combinations work exactly as you expect, ensuring a seamless migration.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
2. Install the software: Run the installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the software.
3. Open your documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .docx files to enjoy stable, interruption-free keyboard shortcut functionality.

Traditional keyboard shortcuts work instantly without delay or forced key-release sequences.Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx), Excel (.xlsx), and PowerPoint (.pptx) formats.Familiar ribbon interface ensures zero learning curve for standard Office users.Free to download and use, with a lightweight design that doesn't slow down your computer.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my Alt-key shortcuts suddenly stop working normally in Microsoft Word?

Microsoft 365 recently implemented updates affecting how it handles legacy Alt-key sequences. Instead of holding Alt and the second key simultaneously, the new software behavior requires you to press Alt, release it, and then press the second key.

Will resetting the Normal.dotm template fix the Alt key shortcut issue?

No, resetting the Normal.dotm template is highly unlikely to resolve this particular behavior. The issue stems from a core software change in how Microsoft 365 registers keystrokes, rather than a corrupted local template file.

How can I use standard ribbon shortcuts without holding down the Alt key?

In modern versions of Office, simply tapping the Alt key once will activate KeyTips, which display small letters over the ribbon tabs. You can then press the corresponding letter on your keyboard without needing to hold down the Alt key.

Does WPS Office have the same Alt-key delay requirement as Microsoft 365?

No, WPS Office maintains traditional keyboard shortcut behaviors. You can use your familiar combinations smoothly without needing to release the Alt key prematurely or wait for a keystroke delay.

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