Fix Word Selecting Text in the Wrong Direction with Shift and Arrow Keys
Question details
The user needs a solution for an unexpected text selection glitch where using keyboard shortcuts causes the selection cursor to behave erratically.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2016
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Highlighting and selecting text within a document using the Shift + arrow key combination.
- Observed behavior
- Word initially highlights text in the expected direction, but suddenly reverses the selection direction temporarily, despite only having English and French language packs installed.
Before modifying application settings, save your current work and test the Shift + arrow key selection in a completely new, blank document to rule out file-specific corruption.
Run an Office Quick Repair
Use the built-in Windows repair tool to fix underlying Microsoft Office application issues without needing a full reinstallation.
A Quick Repair scans the Microsoft Office installation files and fixes common glitches, such as erratic keyboard selection behaviors, without requiring an internet connection or modifying your personal documents.
Click on the Windows Start menu, type 'Control Panel' in the search bar, and press Enter to open it.
Click on 'Programs', then select 'Programs and Features' to view the list of installed software on your computer.
Scroll through the list to find your installed Microsoft Office program (e.g., Office 2016), click to select it, and then click the 'Change' button at the top of the list.
In the pop-up window, select the 'Quick Repair' option and click 'Repair'. Once the process is complete, restart your computer and test text selection in Word.
Check for Document Corruption
Determine if the text selection glitch is isolated to a specific corrupted file rather than a global Word application issue.
Edit Documents Smoothly with WPS Office
If Microsoft Word continues to have selection glitches or requires a time-consuming reinstallation, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative with stable editing features.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word files directly without any formatting loss.
- 3. Edit Without Glitches: Use your familiar keyboard shortcuts like Shift + Arrow keys with stable and expected performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does text selection suddenly reverse direction in Word?
This erratic behavior is usually caused by corrupted Microsoft Office application files, conflicts in right-to-left language settings, or file-specific corruption within a single document.
Will running an Office Quick Repair delete my personal files?
No, an Office Quick Repair only checks and replaces essential application system files. Your personal documents, custom templates, and data will remain untouched.
What should I do if the Quick Repair doesn't fix the text selection issue?
If Quick Repair fails, check if the issue is limited to just one document. If it occurs in all documents, you may need to run the deeper 'Online Repair' or consider switching to a free alternative like WPS Office.
