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How to Fix Cannot Select, Move, or Resize Objects in Word for Mac
Question details
The user is unable to click, drag, select, or resize objects within Word for Microsoft 365 on Mac.
- Product
- Word for Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- Mac / macOS
- Scenario
- Editing a document containing objects like images, text boxes, or shapes in Word for Mac.
- Observed behavior
- Objects cannot be interacted with, clicked, selected, moved, or resized, whereas other Mac applications function normally.
Ensure you have saved all open documents and connected your Mac to a stable Wi-Fi network before initiating any system or software updates.
Restart Mac and Update Software
Since this is often caused by a software glitch or compatibility bug, restarting your device and applying the latest macOS and Office updates will usually resolve object interaction issues.
Microsoft frequently releases patches for Word on Mac to address bugs involving object selection, freezing, or layout rendering. Keeping your macOS and Microsoft 365 installation completely up to date ensures these bugs are patched.
Save your current documents, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, and select 'Restart' to clear out any temporary system glitches.
Once rebooted, click the Apple menu, navigate to System Settings > General > Software Update, and install any available macOS updates to ensure system stability.
Open Microsoft Word, click on 'Help' in the top Mac menu bar, and select 'Check for Updates' to launch Microsoft AutoUpdate. Install the newest available patches for your Office suite.
Try WPS Office for a Bug-Free Experience on Mac
If Microsoft Word for Mac continues to freeze or prevent you from selecting objects, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for macOS users, allowing you to seamlessly edit Word documents without frustrating glitches.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer tailored for macOS.
- 2. Install the Software: Open the downloaded package and drag the WPS Office application into your Applications folder.
- 3. Edit Your Documents: Launch WPS Office, open your .docx file, and easily manage, move, and resize all your objects without any selection glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I click on an image in my Word document?
This can happen if the image is placed entirely behind text or if the document structure is locked. However, if the issue persists across all objects and documents, it is likely a software bug requiring a Microsoft Office update.
Is there an alternative way to select objects in Word for Mac?
Yes, you can use the 'Select' tool found under the Home tab in the Editing group, or open the Selection Pane (available in newer versions) to view and select layers of overlapping objects.
Will updating my macOS or Office affect my existing Word documents?
No, updating macOS or Microsoft Office only updates the software files. Your saved documents are stored separately and will remain intact and unaffected.
What should I do if updating doesn't fix the selection issue?
If updating your software does not work, try starting your Mac in Safe Mode to check if a background application is interfering with Word, or try completely uninstalling and reinstalling Microsoft Office for Mac.
