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How to Disable the Word Editor Side Pane When Pressing F7
Question details
The user wants to prevent the Editor side pane from automatically opening when pressing F7 to run a spelling and grammar check.
- Product
- Word for Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Initiating a spelling and grammar check using the F7 shortcut without triggering the intrusive side panel.
- Observed behavior
- Pressing F7 automatically opens the new Editor side pane, which disrupts the workflow for users who prefer a classic, non-intrusive checking experience.
Ensure your Microsoft Office 365 application is fully updated, as interface options and Proofing settings frequently change in newer builds.
Adjust Proofing Settings and Use Quick Shortcuts
Since Microsoft 365 does not offer a single toggle to completely disable the Editor pane on F7, you can modify proofing options or use quick shortcuts to instantly dismiss it.
Microsoft has integrated the Editor deeply into newer versions of Word for Microsoft 365. While a direct 'turn off' button for the F7 Editor pane does not exist, adjusting specific proofing options can alter how checking behaves, and using keyboard shortcuts allows you to dismiss the pane rapidly.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of Word, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu. In the Word Options dialog box, click on 'Proofing' in the left-hand sidebar.
Uncheck the boxes for 'Check spelling as you type' and 'Mark grammar errors as you type'. While this won't disable the F7 key from opening the Editor, it stops background checks.
Still in the Proofing menu, scroll down to the 'Writing Style' dropdown and click 'Settings'. Look for an option labeled 'Show Editor pane in Word' (available in some specific builds) and uncheck it if present.
When you press F7 and the Editor pane appears, quickly press Ctrl+Spacebar to open the pane's window menu, then press 'C' to close it instantly without reaching for your mouse.
Use WPS Writer for a Distraction-Free Spell Check
If Microsoft 365's forced Editor pane disrupts your workflow, WPS Writer offers a straightforward, classic spell-check dialog that doesn't force a disruptive side pane. You can effortlessly check your documents while maintaining perfect compatibility with all your Microsoft Word files.
- 1. Open Document in WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open your .docx or document file in the Writer application.
- 2. Trigger Spell Check: Press the F7 key on your keyboard, or navigate to the 'Review' tab and click 'Spell Check' to instantly initiate the spelling and grammar check.
- 3. Use the Classic Dialog: Review suggestions in the classic, lightweight popup dialog without a disruptive side pane, clicking 'Change' or 'Ignore' as needed to quickly complete your review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft change the F7 behavior in Word?
Microsoft introduced the Editor pane in Microsoft 365 to provide advanced AI-driven writing assistance, replacing the classic spell check popup with a unified sidebar that checks for clarity, conciseness, and tone alongside basic spelling.
Can I revert to the old Word spell check dialog?
In the latest versions of Microsoft 365, the classic F7 popup has been permanently replaced by the Editor pane. Reverting to the old dialog is generally not possible unless you roll back to an older version of Office, such as Office 2016 or 2019.
Does disabling 'Check spelling as you type' fix the F7 issue?
No, it only stops the red and blue squiggly lines from appearing under text while you are typing. Manually pressing F7 will still summon the Editor side pane in modern Office 365 builds.
