How to Type Straight Apostrophes Instead of Curly Quotes in Word
Question details
The user needs to prevent Microsoft Word from automatically converting straight apostrophes into curly smart quotes or to type a straight apostrophe on demand.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- The user is typing or editing a document and needs straight apostrophes for code, measurements, plain text, or consistent formatting.
- Observed behavior
- Word automatically replaces straight apostrophes with curly smart quotes through AutoFormat or Smart Quotes settings.
Open the document in Microsoft Word and confirm that the conversion happens automatically as you type. If you only need a straight apostrophe occasionally, use the one-time Undo method before changing global AutoCorrect settings.
Undo the Automatic Curly Quote Change
Use this when you need a straight apostrophe only occasionally and do not want to change Word's default AutoFormat behavior.
Type your text with a straight apostrophe in Microsoft Word. If Word immediately changes it to a curly quote, leave the cursor right after the changed character.
Press Ctrl+Z immediately after the automatic replacement. Word reverses the AutoFormat action and restores the straight apostrophe.
Turn Off Smart Quotes in Word AutoCorrect Options
Use this to permanently stop Microsoft Word from changing straight apostrophes and quotation marks into curly smart quotes.
Use WPS Writer as a Free Alternative for Straight Apostrophe and Word Document Control
If you want a lightweight Office suite with familiar quote formatting and AutoCorrect controls, WPS Writer opens and saves Microsoft Word documents with full compatibility and helps you switch without losing productivity.
- 1. Download WPS Office Free: Download WPS Office from the official WPS website and run the installer on your Windows or Mac computer.
- 2. Open your Word document in WPS Writer: Launch WPS Writer and open the existing .doc or .docx file. The text, layout, and existing straight or curly apostrophes remain intact.
- 3. Manage quote formatting if needed: Go to WPS Writer settings and review its AutoCorrect or proofing options to control how quotes are handled in future typing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word change my straight apostrophe to a curly quote?
Because the AutoFormat As You Type option "Straight quotes" with "smart quotes" is enabled. Word replaces straight quotation marks and apostrophes with typographic curly versions automatically.
Can I type a straight apostrophe without editing Word's settings?
Yes. Type the apostrophe, and if Word changes it, press Ctrl+Z immediately to undo the automatic formatting for that instance.
Where is the smart quotes setting in Microsoft Word?
Open File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options, then go to the AutoFormat As You Type tab and clear "Straight quotes" with "smart quotes".
Does disabling smart quotes fix apostrophes that are already curly?
No. It only affects newly typed characters. Use Find and Replace to replace existing curly apostrophes with straight ones.
Will WPS Writer keep straight apostrophes in Word documents?
Yes. WPS Writer preserves the characters in .doc/.docx files and provides similar AutoCorrect options if you need to change quote formatting.
