How to Remove Text Highlight Color in Word
Removing text highlight color in Word is a simple task that can be completed in just a few steps. First, select the text with the highlight. Then, navigate to the "Home" tab and click the arrow next to the Highlight button. Choose "No Color" from the dropdown menu, and your text will be free of any highlight color.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Remove Text Highlight Color in Word
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove the text highlight color in Microsoft Word, making your documents look clean and professional.
Step 1: Select the Text
Highlight the text you want to remove the highlight from.
Selecting the text is as simple as clicking and dragging your mouse over the words. If you need to remove the highlight from multiple sections, hold down the ‘Ctrl’ key while you select each part.
Step 2: Go to the Home Tab
Navigate to the "Home" tab on the Ribbon at the top of the screen.
The "Home" tab contains a variety of tools for formatting your text. This includes the highlight button that we’ll be using to remove the color.
Step 3: Click the Arrow Next to the Highlight Button
Find the Highlight button in the Font group and click the arrow next to it.
The Highlight button is usually represented by a marker icon. Clicking the arrow next to it will reveal a dropdown menu with several options.
Step 4: Choose "No Color"
Select "No Color" from the dropdown menu to remove the highlight.
Once you’ve clicked "No Color," the highlight will disappear, leaving your text looking clean and unmarked.
Step 5: Review Your Text
Check your text to ensure that all highlights have been removed.
It’s always a good idea to double-check your work. Make sure that you’ve removed the highlight from all the sections you wanted to be cleared.
After completing these steps, your text should appear normal without any highlighting. This helps maintain a clean and professional look in your documents.
Tips on How to Remove Text Highlight Color in Word
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: After selecting your text, you can use ‘Ctrl + Alt + H’ to quickly remove the highlight.
- Format Painter: If you need to apply the "No Color" setting to multiple sections, use the Format Painter tool to save time.
- Check for Hidden Highlights: Sometimes highlights can be hidden within other formatting. Make sure to check your entire document.
- Save Your Work: Always save your document before making large changes to prevent losing any work.
- Undo Mistakes: If you accidentally remove highlights you didn’t intend to, use ‘Ctrl + Z’ to undo the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the "No Color" option doesn’t work?
Sometimes, other formatting issues might be causing the problem. Try clearing all formatting or copying the text into a new document.
Can I remove highlights from multiple sections at once?
Yes, hold down the ‘Ctrl’ key while selecting each section, then follow the same steps to remove the highlight.
Does this work in older versions of Word?
Yes, the steps are similar in older versions, though the layout might be slightly different.
Can I remove highlights from a PDF in Word?
If the PDF has been converted to an editable Word document, you can follow the same steps to remove highlights.
Will removing highlights affect other formatting?
No, removing highlights will not affect other formatting like bold, italics, or font size.
Summary
- Select the text.
- Go to the "Home" tab.
- Click the arrow next to the Highlight button.
- Choose "No Color."
- Review your text.
Conclusion
Removing text highlight color in Word is a straightforward task that can help keep your documents looking clean and professional. Whether you’re working on a school assignment or a business report, knowing how to manage text highlights can be incredibly useful.
Remember to save your work frequently and use the tips provided to ensure a smooth experience. If you have any lingering questions, refer back to the FAQ section for quick answers. Getting rid of unnecessary highlights can make a big difference in readability and presentation.
For further reading, check out other Word formatting guides to enhance your document editing skills. With practice, you’ll become more efficient and adept at using all the features Microsoft Word has to offer.

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.