How to Fix Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Stuck on the Draw Tab
Question details
Users are unable to switch from the Draw tab to other tabs like Home or Insert in Microsoft 365 desktop applications, specifically on touchscreen devices.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 version 21H2 (Dell Inspiron 7506)
- Scenario
- Attempting to switch ribbon menus while using Microsoft Office desktop apps on a touchscreen or pen-enabled computer.
- Observed behavior
- The application remains locked on the Draw tab. Even when workarounds are applied, the 'Always Show Ribbon' option forces the application to re-select the Draw tab.
Verify that your Windows OS, Office applications, and touchscreen device drivers are fully updated, and ensure that no active stylus is resting on or near the screen.
Apply the 'Show Tabs Only' Workaround
Use this temporary ribbon display setting to bypass the locked Draw tab and access other menus like Home or Insert.
Since this issue frequently occurs on touchscreen laptops when the system forces the Draw tab open, changing the ribbon display to 'Show Tabs Only' allows you to navigate away from the Draw menu.
Open the affected Office application and click the downward-facing arrow located at the far right edge of the Draw tab.
Select 'Show Tabs Only' from the dropdown menu. The ribbon will collapse, allowing you to click on the Home, Insert, or other tabs freely.
Click on any other tab to use it. The selected ribbon will temporarily overlay the top of your document while navigating.
Disable Automatic Inking and Check Touch Settings
Prevent Office from automatically selecting the Draw tab by modifying the advanced pen and ink settings.
Enjoy a Touch-Friendly, Glitch-Free Experience with WPS Office
If Microsoft 365 continues to lock you into the Draw tab on your touchscreen device, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and user-friendly interface that flawlessly adapts to both standard desktops and touchscreen devices without forcing you into specific ribbon menus.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click on the 'Download WPS Office Free' button.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the office suite on your device.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Office files. They will load perfectly with all formatting retained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft Office automatically switch to the Draw tab?
Office applications are designed to automatically detect touchscreen capabilities and active stylus inputs. When the software senses a pen or touch interface, it defaults to the Draw tab to facilitate immediate on-screen inking.
Can I permanently hide the Draw tab in Word or Excel?
Yes. You can hide the Draw tab by clicking File > Options > Customize Ribbon. In the list of Main Tabs on the right side of the window, uncheck the box next to 'Draw' and click OK.
Will updating my computer fix the ribbon getting stuck?
It is highly likely. Ribbon display glitches on touchscreen devices can often be resolved by installing the latest Windows updates, Microsoft Office patches, and specific device drivers for your touchscreen or pen.
