How to Disable or Turn Off Dark Mode in Microsoft Word

Key Takeaways:

  • Dark mode in Microsoft Word can be turned off by changing the Office Theme settings
  • Users can keep dark mode enabled but have a white document background by adjusting Word Options
  • Dark mode settings may vary slightly between Windows and Mac versions of Microsoft Word

Dark mode has become an increasingly popular feature in many applications, including Microsoft Word. While some users find the dark background and light text easier on the eyes, others may prefer the traditional light mode. If you’re looking to disable or turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do just that.

Changing Office Theme Settings

The easiest way to turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word is by changing the Office Theme settings. Here’s how:

  1. Open Microsoft Word on your computer
  2. Click on the “File” menu in the top-left corner
  3. Select “Account” from the left sidebar
  4. In the “Office Theme” section on the right, click the drop-down menu
  5. Choose either “White” or “Colorful” to disable dark mode and activate light mode

By selecting the “White” theme, you’ll return to the traditional light mode with black text on a white background. The “Colorful” theme is similar but includes some additional colors in the interface.

Adjusting Word Options

If you want to continue using dark mode in Microsoft Word but prefer a white document background, you can adjust the Word Options settings. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Word
  2. Click on the “File” menu
  3. Select “Options” from the left sidebar
  4. In the “Word Options” window, click on “General” in the left sidebar
  5. Scroll down to the “Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office” section
  6. Next to the “Office Theme” drop-down menu, check the box for “Never change the document page color”
  7. Click “OK” at the bottom of the window

Now, even when you’re using dark mode, your document pages will appear white, making them easier to read and edit.

Differences Between Windows and Mac

While the process for disabling dark mode in Microsoft Word is similar on both Windows and Mac, there are a few slight differences to keep in mind.

Windows

On Windows, you can access the Office Theme settings by clicking on “File” > “Account” and then selecting your desired theme from the drop-down menu.

Mac

On a Mac, the process is a bit different. To turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word for Mac, you’ll need to disable the system-wide dark mode:

  1. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen
  2. Select “System Preferences”
  3. Click on “General”
  4. Under “Appearance,” select “Light”

Once you’ve disabled the system-wide dark mode, Microsoft Word will automatically return to light mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark mode in Microsoft Word on my mobile device?

Yes, dark mode is available in the Microsoft Word app for both Android and iOS devices. To enable or disable dark mode, go to the app settings and look for the “Theme” or “Appearance” options.

Will turning off dark mode in Microsoft Word affect other Office applications?

No, changing the Office Theme settings in Microsoft Word will only affect Word itself. If you want to disable dark mode in other Office applications like Excel or PowerPoint, you’ll need to change the settings in each application separately.

Can I customize the colors used in dark mode?

While you can’t fully customize the colors used in Microsoft Word’s dark mode, you can choose between a few different pre-set color schemes. To access these options, click on “File” > “Options” > “General” and look for the “Office Theme” drop-down menu.

Will my documents look different to others if I use dark mode?

No, using dark mode in Microsoft Word only affects how the application appears on your own device. When you share a document with someone else, they will see it in their own chosen theme, whether that’s dark mode or light mode.

Can using dark mode in Microsoft Word help reduce eye strain?

While some users find that dark mode helps reduce eye strain, particularly in low-light environments, the evidence is largely anecdotal. If you experience eye strain or discomfort while using Microsoft Word, experimenting with different themes and settings can help you find what works best for you.

By following these simple steps, you can easily disable or turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word, allowing you to customize your experience and work in the environment that’s most comfortable for you.