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How to Enable Spelling and Grammar Suggestions in Word 2021
Question details
The user wants to enable advanced spelling and grammar suggestions or locate the Microsoft Editor tab in the Word 2021 desktop application.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2021
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to check spelling, grammar, and spacing errors dynamically while typing in a Word document offline.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft Editor tab is completely missing in the Word 2021 desktop app, and hover suggestions for errors do not appear as they do in Word for the web.
Ensure your Microsoft Word 2021 application is up to date and that you have a document open with sample text to test the active proofing features.
Enable Built-in Proofing and Grammar Settings
Although Word 2021 lacks the full Microsoft Editor found in Microsoft 365, you can still enable robust built-in spelling, grammar, and refinement checks.
Word 2021 relies on classic Proofing tools rather than the newer Microsoft Editor pane. By adjusting your Proofing options, you can force the application to check for spelling, grammar, and stylistic issues like double spacing as you type.
Launch Word 2021, click on 'File' in the top ribbon, and select 'Options' at the bottom left of the screen.
In the Word Options dialog box, click on 'Proofing' in the left-hand menu pane.
Scroll down to the section titled 'When correcting spelling and grammar in Word'. Check the boxes for 'Check spelling as you type' and 'Mark grammar errors as you type'.
Change the 'Writing Style' dropdown menu to 'Grammar & Refinements', then click the 'Settings' button next to it.
In the Grammar Settings window, scroll to find specific rules like 'Spacing' under the Punctuation Conventions section. Check the boxes you need, and click 'OK' to apply the changes.
Use Word for the Web for Advanced Editor Features
If you need the complete Microsoft Editor pane with advanced hover suggestions and comprehensive style refinements, use the free online version of Word as a workaround.
How to Use Free Spell Check and Proofing in WPS Writer
If you are frustrated by version restrictions and missing tools in standalone Microsoft Office versions, WPS Writer offers an intuitive, free built-in spell check tool that works seamlessly offline. It highlights errors as you type without requiring a premium subscription.
- 1. Open your document in WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open the Word file you want to proofread.
- 2. Navigate to the Review tab: Click on the 'Review' tab in the top ribbon menu to access all proofing features.
- 3. Turn on Spell Check: Click the 'Spell Check' button on the left side of the ribbon, or press F7 on your keyboard.
- 4. Enable background checking: Click the dropdown arrow under Spell Check and ensure 'Check Spelling as You Type' is selected to see red underlines on errors instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Microsoft Editor tab missing in Word 2021?
The Microsoft Editor pane is a premium feature exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscription plans. Because Word 2021 is a one-time purchase product, it only includes the classic Proofing tools found in File > Options, not the dedicated Editor interface.
How do I fix unwanted double spaces in Word 2021?
Go to File > Options > Proofing. Under Writing Style, choose 'Grammar & Refinements' and click the 'Settings' button. Scroll down to find the 'Spacing' option under Punctuation Conventions and enable it. Unwanted spaces will now be marked with a blue double underline in your document.
Can I get Microsoft Editor for free?
Yes, the basic version of Microsoft Editor is available for free if you use Word for the web (Word Online) or by installing the free Microsoft Editor browser extension for Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
Why aren't my spelling errors getting red underlines?
Your background spelling check setting might be disabled. To fix this, navigate to File > Options > Proofing, and ensure the checkbox for 'Check spelling as you type' is ticked.
