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Is the Lasso Selection Tool Available in Word for iPad?

Guest Writer Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if the lasso selection tool can be used to select ink or objects in Microsoft Word on an iPad.

Is the Lasso Selection Tool Available in Word for iPad?

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: iPad
Scenario: Drawing, editing, or selecting handwritten notes and objects within a document on a tablet device.
Observed behavior: The lasso selection tool is unavailable in the Word app for iPad, although it exists in other Microsoft 365 applications.

Before you start

Verify that your Microsoft Word app for iPad is updated to the latest version in the App Store, as Microsoft occasionally rolls out new drawing features in version updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Supported Apps and Submit Feature Feedback

Since the feature is missing in Word, use alternative Microsoft apps that support the lasso tool and request the feature from Microsoft.

Currently, Microsoft Word for iPad does not support the lasso selection tool. While this feature is fully functional and widely used in other Microsoft 365 apps for iPad, such as PowerPoint and OneNote, it has not yet been integrated into the iOS version of Word.

If you rely heavily on the lasso tool for managing handwritten notes or selecting drawn objects, you can use OneNote for your initial drafting. To help bring this feature to Word, you can submit direct feedback to the development team.

Open Help & Feedback

In your Word for iPad app, tap on your profile picture or the Settings gear icon to access the main menu, then select 'Help & Feedback'.

Submit a Feature Request

Choose the option to 'Tell Us What Can Be Better' or suggest a feature. Clearly state that you need the lasso selection tool integrated into Word for iPad.

Use Supported Apps and Submit Feature Feedback

Available Alternatives: You can seamlessly use the lasso selection tool in Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft OneNote on your iPad without any issues.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Feature-Rich Mobile Experience

Since Microsoft Word for iPad has limitations with certain drawing and selection tools, consider trying WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, lightweight, and completely free alternative that offers robust editing tools for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files on mobile devices.

1. Install WPS Office: Open the App Store on your iPad, search for 'WPS Office', and download the application for free.
2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Office and tap 'Open' to browse and open your existing Word (.docx) documents directly from your device or cloud storage.
3. Edit and Annotate: Use the rich toolbars at the top of the screen to edit text, insert objects, or use the annotation tools provided within the app.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight application with a highly intuitive user interface optimized for iPads.Comprehensive built-in PDF editing, annotation, and conversion tools.Free to use for basic document creation and editing on the go.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the lasso tool in any Microsoft app on the iPad?

Yes, the lasso selection tool is fully supported in Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft OneNote for iPad. You can find it under the 'Draw' tab to select ink strokes or objects.

How do I select drawn objects in Word for iPad without the lasso tool?

Currently, selecting multiple drawn objects simultaneously in Word for iPad is limited without the lasso tool. You will need to tap objects individually to select and modify them, or use a desktop version of Word for advanced object manipulation.

When will Microsoft add the lasso tool to Word for iPad?

Microsoft has not announced an official release date for the lasso tool in Word for iPad. However, they continuously monitor the Microsoft 365 feedback platform; submitting a request increases the likelihood of its future inclusion.

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