How to Restore or Understand the Classic Ribbon in Microsoft Office
Question details
Users want to know how to restore the classic ribbon layout in Microsoft Office desktop applications and understand why the simplified ribbon appears only in the web version.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Navigating and customizing the ribbon interface across different versions of Microsoft Office.
- Observed behavior
- The simplified ribbon is missing in desktop applications, and overarching contextual tabs like 'Table Tools' no longer appear in newer Office versions.
Verify whether you are using Microsoft Office on the web or a desktop version (such as Office 2019, 2021, or Microsoft 365), as the interface features and ribbon options differ significantly depending on the platform.
Adjust Ribbon Display Options in Desktop Office
Use the built-in Ribbon Display Options to show or hide the classic ribbon tabs and commands in desktop versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
The simplified ribbon is exclusive to the web version of Microsoft Office. If you are using the desktop application, you must use the standard Ribbon Display Options to control the visibility of your tools.
Launch your Microsoft Office desktop application, such as Word or Excel.
Look for the 'Ribbon Display Options' icon located in the top-right corner of the application window, near the minimize and close buttons.
Click the icon and select 'Show Tabs and Commands' from the dropdown menu to keep the classic ribbon fully visible at all times.
Locate Contextual Table Tabs in Newer Office Versions
Learn how to find and use the new contextual table tabs in Office 2021 and Microsoft 365, which have replaced the older 'Table Tools' parent label.
Switching to the Simplified Ribbon in Office for the Web
Access a cleaner, more streamlined interface by using the Simplified Ribbon, which is uniquely available in the web-based versions of Microsoft Office.
Switch to WPS Office for a Familiar, Classic Ribbon Interface
If you find Microsoft Office's changing interfaces, missing contextual tabs, and platform differences frustrating, try WPS Office. It offers a highly compatible, intuitive classic ribbon layout that makes finding your tools easy without a steep learning curve.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click 'Download WPS Office Free'.
- 2. Install the software: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the quick setup instructions on your screen.
- 3. Enjoy a familiar interface: Open WPS Writer, Spreadsheets, or Presentation to immediately access a classic, easy-to-navigate ribbon UI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find the Simplified Ribbon in my desktop version of Word?
The Simplified Ribbon is exclusively designed for Office for the web to optimize browser space. Desktop versions only support the Classic Ribbon, though you can use 'Ribbon Display Options' to auto-hide it.
Where did the 'Table Tools' tab go in Office 2021 and Microsoft 365?
Microsoft removed the overarching 'Table Tools' parent label in newer versions. Now, when you click inside a table, you will directly see separate 'Table Design' and 'Layout' tabs pop up on the ribbon.
Why do I see two 'Layout' tabs in Microsoft Word?
When working inside a table, Word displays the standard 'Layout' tab (used for adjusting page margins and orientation) and a secondary contextual 'Layout' tab specifically meant for table formatting (such as adding rows or merging cells).
How do I find hidden ribbon tabs if my screen is too small?
If your application window is too narrow to display all the ribbon tabs, a navigation arrow will automatically appear at the right end of the ribbon. Click this arrow to scroll and access your hidden tabs.
