Office Settings & Configuration

How to Use Word Design Mode and the VBA Properties Window

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to understand how to utilize Word Design Mode for content controls and how to view and edit object properties using the Visual Basic Editor.

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Creating interactive document forms with content controls and developing macros using the Visual Basic Editor.
Observed behavior: The user needs to know the specific functions and navigation paths for Design Mode and the VBA Properties window to successfully configure document objects.

Before you start

Ensure you have the Developer tab enabled on your ribbon, as both Design Mode and the Visual Basic Editor are accessed exclusively from this tab.

Solution 1Recommended

Enable and Use Word Design Mode for Content Controls

Design Mode allows you to safely edit, format, and customize the placeholder text and properties of content controls in your document forms.

Content controls such as text boxes, drop-down lists, and date pickers use Design Mode to let developers modify their internal structure without interacting with them as a standard user would.

Enable the Developer Tab

Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon. In the right pane, check the box next to 'Developer' and click OK.

Activate Design Mode

Click on the newly added Developer tab on the ribbon. In the Controls group, click the 'Design Mode' button. The button will appear highlighted when active.

Edit Content Controls

Insert a content control (e.g., Plain Text or Combo Box). While in Design Mode, click inside the control to edit its placeholder text and format the tags.

Exit Design Mode

Once your edits are complete, click 'Design Mode' again to turn it off and test your form controls as a regular user.

Enable and Use Word Design Mode for Content Controls

Form Testing: Always remember to toggle Design Mode off before distributing your document so users can interact with the form fields properly.

Solution 2

Access and Edit Attributes in the VBA Properties Window

The Properties window in the Visual Basic Editor is essential for viewing and modifying the characteristics of macros, user forms, and ActiveX controls.

Create Advanced Documents and Forms with WPS Writer

WPS Writer offers a comprehensive suite of developer tools, supporting form controls, interactive fields, and VBA macros (in supported editions) to help you build professional documents easily.

1. Open WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open your document or create a new one in WPS Writer.
2. Access the Developer Tools: Navigate to the Developer tab on the main ribbon to access macro and control settings.
3. Insert Form Controls: Use the Controls group to insert text fields, checkboxes, and drop-down lists into your document.
4. Launch the VBA Editor: Click 'Visual Basic' or 'Macros' to open the code editor, where you can utilize the Properties window to customize objects.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word DOCX and DOCM macro-enabled formatsBuilt-in Developer tab for inserting and managing form controls seamlesslySupport for VBA macros to automate repetitive tasks and edit propertiesLightweight, fast, and features a familiar user-friendly ribbon interface

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Word Design Mode and the Word Design tab?

Design Mode (located on the Developer tab) is specifically used for editing the properties and placeholder text of content controls and forms. The Design tab (located on the main ribbon) is used for overall document formatting, including themes, page colors, and watermarks.

Why is the Properties window empty in my Visual Basic Editor?

The Properties window only displays information when an object is actively selected. To see properties, make sure you have clicked on a specific UserForm, module, or control inside the Project Explorer pane first.

Can I use ActiveX controls without turning on Design Mode?

No, to edit the layout, size, or properties of an ActiveX control on your document page, you must have Design Mode turned on. When Design Mode is off, clicking the control will trigger its programmed action instead.

Does WPS Office support the VBA Properties window?

Yes, compatible versions of WPS Office include VBA support. You can open the Visual Basic Editor from the Developer tab in WPS Writer and press F4 to access the Properties window just like you would in Microsoft Word.

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