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How to Open the File Browser Directly in Word 2019
Question details
The user wants to bypass the Backstage screen and directly open the file browser when selecting the Open command in Word 2019.
- Product
- Microsoft Word 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening an existing document using the Open command.
- Observed behavior
- Word 2019 opens the Backstage view by default instead of the classic file browser dialog box seen in earlier versions like Word 2016.
Verify that you are using Word 2019 or a newer version of Microsoft Office, as this specific Backstage view behavior became the default setting starting with these versions.
Bypass the Backstage View via Save Options
Adjust the default save and open behavior in Word Options to skip the Backstage screen when using keyboard shortcuts.
Microsoft Word allows you to configure its behavior so that traditional keyboard shortcuts bypass the Backstage view entirely. Once enabled, you can use the standard Ctrl+O shortcut to instantly open the file browser.
Launch Word 2019, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.
In the Word Options dialog box, click on 'Save' in the left-hand navigation pane.
Look for the 'Save documents' section and check the box that says 'Don't show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts'.
Click 'OK' to save your changes. You can now press Ctrl+O on your keyboard to open the file browser directly.
Add a Direct Open Command to the Ribbon
Customize the Word ribbon to include a dedicated button that opens the file browser directly.
Use the Ctrl+F12 Keyboard Shortcut
Use a built-in function key shortcut to immediately summon the file browser.
Try WPS Office for a Streamlined Experience
If navigating Microsoft Word's Backstage view feels cumbersome, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, classic interface that makes file management straightforward, ensuring you spend less time clicking through menus and more time working.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer.
- 2. Install and Launch: Run the installer and open WPS Writer once the installation is complete.
- 3. Open Files Instantly: Simply click the 'Menu' button and select 'Open', or use 'Ctrl+O' to directly access your local file browser without navigating a complex backstage view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely disable the Backstage view in Word 2019?
You cannot completely disable the Backstage view in Word 2019 when clicking the 'File' tab. However, you can bypass it for file management by checking 'Don't show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts' in 'File' > 'Options' > 'Save'.
How do I add the classic Open button to the Quick Access Toolbar?
Click the small down arrow on the Quick Access Toolbar (usually at the top left of the Word window), select 'More Commands', change the dropdown to 'All Commands', scroll to find the 'Open Document' or 'Open...' command, and click 'Add' to place it on the toolbar.
Why did Microsoft introduce the Backstage view instead of the file browser?
The Backstage view was introduced to provide a centralized location for file-level activities such as saving, sharing, printing, and accessing cloud storage (like OneDrive and SharePoint), which a simple file browser dialog cannot accommodate.
