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Set Keep Text Only as Default Paste Option in Word for iPad

Tauseeq MagsiTauseeq Magsi Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to permanently set the default paste option to Keep Text Only in Word for iPad, similar to how it functions on desktop versions.

Set Keep Text Only as the Default Paste Option in Word for iPad
Product
Microsoft Word
Device & OS
iPadOS / iOS
Scenario
Pasting text from external sources into a Word document on an iPad without transferring unwanted formatting.
Observed behavior
Word for iPad currently lacks a built-in setting to make Keep Text Only the permanent default paste option and does not sync this setting from Windows.
Before you start

Ensure your Word app on your iPad is updated to the latest version, as Microsoft frequently updates interface options and settings menus.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Manual Paste Options and Submit a Feature Request

Since setting a permanent default is not currently supported in Word for iOS, you must manually choose the paste format and can request this feature directly from Microsoft.

At present, Word for iPad does not allow you to configure a permanent 'Keep Text Only' default paste option or create custom keyboard shortcuts for this action. However, you can select the option manually each time you paste and let Microsoft know you want this feature added.

1
Paste text manually

When pasting text into your document, tap the screen to bring up the context menu, select the Paste icon, and explicitly choose 'Keep Text Only'.

2
Open the Help menu

To request a permanent setting, tap the three-dot menu (...) in the top-right corner of the Word app.

3
Navigate to Feedback

Select 'Help & Feedback' from the dropdown, then choose 'Suggest a Feature'.

4
Submit your request

Select 'iOS' as your product version, and either submit a new request to add a default paste style or vote for an existing one.

Use Manual Paste Options and Submit a Feature Request
Current Limitations: Custom keyboard shortcuts for pasting text without formatting are also unsupported on the iOS version of Word.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Seamless Editing Experience on iPad

If you are frustrated by the feature limitations of mobile document editors, try WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative that gives you robust control over your documents on an iPad.

  1. 1. Download the App: Visit the Apple App Store on your iPad and search for WPS Office to download the application for free.
  2. 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and easily import or open your existing Microsoft Word (.docx) files.
  3. 3. Edit with Ease: Enjoy a comprehensive set of editing tools, making it simple to manage text, formatting, and pasting preferences on your mobile device.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use keyboard shortcuts to paste as plain text in Word for iPad?

No, Word for iOS currently does not support custom keyboard shortcuts or native shortcuts for pasting text without formatting.

Does Word for iPad sync my desktop paste settings?

No, Word for iPad does not synchronize default paste settings, such as 'Keep Text Only', from the Windows or Mac desktop versions.

Is there any mobile word processor that offers better formatting controls?

While Word for iOS has certain mobile limitations, you can explore free alternatives like WPS Office, which offers robust text management features and excellent format compatibility for iPad users.