Word Ms Projects Ctrl Direction Error: Step-by-Step Fixes

This guide walks you through office apps not working using Microsoft-supported steps first, with WPS only where it genuinely helps.

Problem Description: Ms Projects Ctrl Direction

I have been running into weird issue with Microsoft Projects 2024 where nudging doesn't work on my .mpp files. Specifically in Network diagram if I am in Gantt chart then CTRL+Arrow functions fine. It was last working around mid November. I have asked few users around me and its working for some and not for others(majority). This issue seems to roam around with user profile. I asked coworker who is not affected with this issue and they logged into my system and able to nudge network diagram fine in same file I am having issue. I tried to sign into their machine and issue persist for me. Things I have tried so far, 1. Made sure that Allow manual positioning is selected from Format>Layout. 1. Ran online repair for office app 1. Re-install projects, M365 Apps. 1. Tried on Project professional. 1. Tried in Excel, word and Visio CTRL + Arrow works fine. 1. Deleted **Project** and **MS Projects** from Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0 1. Renamed Global.MPT file from C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\MS Project\16\en-US.  ***Any one else run into same issue or have any suggestion?***

Quick Answer for Office Setup on New Device

The issue with Ctrl + arrow keys in MS Project occurs when the display scale factor is set above 100%, with the default often at 125%.

Likely Causes Behind Office Apps Not Working Root Factors

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger office apps not working.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Transferring Office License Safely

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. To resolve, change the display scaling to 100% by going to System > Display > Custom scaling and setting it to 100%.

2. This should restore the functionality.

Alternative Solutions for Secondary Office Fixes

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Run Quick Repair, then Online Repair from Programs and Features if the app still fails.

4. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: WPS as a Local Alternative

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Keeping Office Stable Long Term

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About Office Support Questions

Can WPS Office fix this office apps not working issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.