How to Fix Synchronized Scrolling Not Working After a Word Update
Question details
The user needs to troubleshoot the Synchronized Scrolling feature that stopped working after a Microsoft Word update and address difficulties with side-by-side comparison caused by the modern comments layout.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Comparing two documents side-by-side using the Synchronized Scrolling feature.
- Observed behavior
- Synchronized scrolling fails to work after a recent software update, and the modern comments layout obstructs clear side-by-side document comparison.
Ensure you have two documents open and arranged side-by-side using the View Side by Side feature before attempting to use synchronized scrolling. Save any unsaved work before checking for or applying new Office updates.
Update Microsoft Word and Verify Product Information
Checking your current Word build and installing the latest patches can resolve bugs introduced in previous updates.
Microsoft frequently releases updates to patch known bugs. If synchronized scrolling broke during a recent update, a subsequent patch may have already been released to fix it. If the issue persists, gathering your exact version details will help Microsoft Support assist you.
Launch Microsoft Word, click on 'File' in the top left corner, and select 'Account' from the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Click on 'Update Options' under the Product Information section and select 'Update Now' to check for and install any available fixes.
If the issue remains unresolved, note your specific Version and Build numbers (e.g., Current Channel version 2209, build 15629.20208) and take a screenshot of the Product Information section to provide to support.
Submit Feedback Regarding the Modern Comments Layout
If the modern comments layout is hindering your side-by-side comparison, sending feedback helps Microsoft prioritize layout improvements.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Comparison
If Microsoft Word updates are causing workflow interruptions, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, user-friendly environment for editing and comparing documents side-by-side without the hassle of disruptive update bugs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite from the official website.
- 2. Open Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open the two Word documents you want to compare.
- 3. View Side by Side: Navigate to the 'View' tab, click 'View Side by Side', and enjoy smooth synchronized scrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did synchronized scrolling stop working in Word?
Software updates can occasionally introduce bugs or reset user preferences. A recent Microsoft Word update likely caused a glitch in the View Side by Side feature. Installing the latest Microsoft patch usually resolves this.
How do I turn on synchronized scrolling in Word?
First, open two documents. Go to the 'View' tab on the ribbon, click 'View Side by Side', and then click the 'Synchronous Scrolling' button (located next to the Side by Side button) to scroll both documents simultaneously.
Can I disable the modern comments layout if it blocks my view?
In some versions of Word, you can disable modern comments by going to File > Options > General, and unchecking 'Enable modern comments.' You will need to restart Word for the changes to take effect. If the option is missing, you must submit feedback to Microsoft.
