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Office for Mac Issues

How to Change the Balloon Text Font for Track Changes in Word for Mac

Adam DavisAdam Davis Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to change the font used for reviewer names and revision actions inside Track Changes balloons in Microsoft Word for Mac.

How to Change the Balloon Text Font for Track Changes in Word for Mac
Product
Microsoft Word
Device & OS
Mac
Scenario
Reviewing a document with Track Changes enabled where the revision balloons display an incorrect or unwanted font, such as a Greek font.
Observed behavior
Reviewer names and revision actions in the balloons appear in an unwanted font because they are controlled by the hidden 'Balloon Text' style rather than normal document settings.
Before you start

Ensure your document has Track Changes enabled and contains existing revisions or comments so you can immediately see the font changes applied to the balloons.

Solution 1Recommended

Modify the Balloon Text Style Settings

The most effective way to fix the font in revision balloons is by modifying the specific 'Balloon Text' style in Word for Mac.

In Microsoft Word, revision balloons use a dedicated style setting that operates independently from your main document font. Modifying this specific style will update all current and future balloons in your document.

1
Access the Style Menu

Navigate to the top menu bar, click on 'Format', and select 'Style' from the drop-down list to open the Style dialog box.

2
Locate the Balloon Text Style

In the Style dialog box, scroll through the list and select 'Balloon Text'. If you do not see it, change the 'List' drop-down option at the bottom to 'All styles'.

3
Modify the Font

Click the 'Modify' button. In the Formatting section of the new window, choose your desired font (such as Arial or Calibri) from the font drop-down menu.

4
Verify Language Settings and Apply

Click the 'Format' button in the bottom-left corner of the Modify dialog, select 'Language', and ensure the correct language is set. Click 'OK' on all dialog boxes to apply the changes to your revision balloons.

Modify the Balloon Text Style Settings
Tip for New Documents: If you want this font change to apply to all future documents, check the 'Add to template' box in the Modify Style dialog before clicking OK.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Smoother Document Review Experience on Mac

If you are struggling with complicated style settings in Word for Mac, WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative. It provides excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office formats and an intuitive interface for managing track changes and comments.

  1. 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for Mac from the official website and follow the simple installation instructions.
  2. 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .docx file. Your formatting and previous track changes will remain intact.
  3. 3. Use the Review Tools: Navigate to the 'Review' tab to easily accept, reject, or format track changes using an intuitive interface.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx) formats, ensuring your track changes are perfectly preserved.Intuitive and easy-to-use Review tools without hidden or complex style menus.Lightweight application that runs quickly and smoothly on all Mac devices.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Balloon Text style missing from my Styles list?

By default, Word may only show 'Recommended' or 'In Use' styles in the list. To reveal the Balloon Text style, click the 'List' drop-down at the bottom of the Styles dialog and change it to 'All styles'.

Does changing the Balloon Text font affect my main document formatting?

No. The Balloon Text style is exclusively applied to the revision and comment balloons located in the document margins. Altering it will not change the font or formatting of your main document content.

How do I change the font color for track changes balloons?

You can change the font color using the exact same method. In the 'Modify Style' dialog for 'Balloon Text', simply select your preferred color from the font color drop-down menu before clicking OK.