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How to Fix Missing Editing, Reviewing, or Viewing Control in Word
Question details
The user cannot find the Editing, Reviewing, or Viewing mode control in the Microsoft Word desktop application.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to switch a document between Editing, Reviewing, and Viewing modes in the desktop interface.
- Observed behavior
- The mode control dropdown is missing or unavailable in the desktop application, despite previously being there or currently being available in Word for the web.
Verify your current version of Microsoft Word and ensure your internet connection is active, as you may need to use Word for the web to access these specific controls.
Access the Document via Word for the Web
Since the control is still available in the online version of Word, opening your document in a browser is the most reliable workaround.
Microsoft often maintains different feature sets between the desktop and online versions of Office. While the control was removed from some desktop builds, it remains fully functional online.
Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft 365 website. Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
Click on the Word icon from the app launcher on the left side of the screen to open Word for the web.
Open your document from OneDrive. Look at the top-right corner of the ribbon to find the Editing, Reviewing, or Viewing dropdown menu and select your desired mode.
Update Microsoft Word Desktop Application
Microsoft frequently updates interface elements. Checking for updates ensures you have the latest features, bug fixes, or reverted interface changes.
Use WPS Office for a Consistent Document Editing Experience
If Microsoft Word's changing interfaces and removed controls disrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a stable, familiar interface with comprehensive document reviewing tools that remain consistently accessible.
- 1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word (.docx) files seamlessly without formatting loss.
- 3. Access Review Tools: Navigate to the 'Review' tab on the top ribbon to easily access track changes, comments, and document protection features in one consistent location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft remove the Viewing control from the desktop app?
The control was removed in certain Microsoft 365 desktop updates because many users objected to the persistent popup that appeared whenever a document was opened in Viewing mode.
Can I restore the missing Editing and Reviewing control via Word settings?
No, if the control was intentionally removed from your specific build by Microsoft, it cannot be toggled back on or restored through the application's internal settings.
Is the Viewing control still available anywhere?
Yes, the Editing, Reviewing, and Viewing control dropdown is typically still available when you open your document using Word for the web in your internet browser.
