How to Fix JAWS Screen Reader Saying Blank in Microsoft Word
Question details
The JAWS 19 screen reader intermittently fails to read document text in Microsoft Word, repeatedly announcing the word "blank" instead.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Using the JAWS screen reader software to read text aloud from a Word document.
- Observed behavior
- JAWS stops reading the actual text content of the document and repeatedly announces "blank."
Verify that your computer's audio is functioning correctly and check if JAWS is able to read text on your desktop or in a web browser to ensure the issue is isolated to Microsoft Word.
Update Microsoft Word to the Latest Version
Updating to the latest Office build resolves known compatibility issues and rendering bugs that prevent screen readers like JAWS 19 from detecting text.
Compatibility between Microsoft Office and assistive technologies requires both programs to be up to date. An outdated Word installation may fail to expose its text properly to the JAWS software.
Launch Microsoft Word. Click on the 'File' tab in the top left corner, then select 'Account' from the left-hand menu.
Locate the 'Product Information' section. Click on the 'Update Options' button next to 'Office Updates'.
Select 'Update Now' from the drop-down menu. Allow Microsoft Office to check for and install any available updates, then restart Word.
Gather Troubleshooting Information
If updating Word does not immediately fix the issue, collecting specific details about the failure will help narrow down the root cause.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Access
If Microsoft Word continues to struggle with screen reader compatibility, consider trying WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative that effortlessly handles standard Office formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does JAWS say "blank" when reading my Word document?
This usually happens due to a compatibility bug between a specific build of Microsoft Word and JAWS 19. An outdated Word version or a temporary rendering glitch can prevent the screen reader from recognizing the text layer.
How do I find out which version of Microsoft Word I am using?
Open Microsoft Word, click on the "File" menu, and select "Account". Under the "Product Information" section, click "About Word" to see your exact version and build number.
Could the document itself be causing JAWS to say "blank"?
Yes. If the text in the document is formatted as an image, placed inside an unreadable text box, or if the file is corrupted, JAWS might not detect any text. Test by creating a brand new document and typing a few words to see if JAWS reads it.
Should I also update my JAWS software?
Yes. If updating Microsoft Word does not resolve the problem, check for updates in your JAWS software. Upgrading from JAWS 19 to a newer version may contain specific fixes for modern Microsoft Office builds.
