Restoring a previous version of a Word document is simpler than you might think. Whether you’re trying to retrieve an earlier draft or recover content you accidentally deleted, this guide will walk you through the steps. By the end, you’ll know how to navigate Word’s version history to bring back any document version you need.
How to Restore Previous Version of Word
Here’s how to restore a previous version of a Word document using built-in features. These steps will help you locate and revert to an earlier version of your document.
Step 1: Open the Document
First, open the Word document from which you want to restore an earlier version.
You’ll need to have the document open to access its version history. If the document isn’t already saved in OneDrive or SharePoint, make sure to save it there for the version history feature to be available.
Step 2: Access Version History
Click on ‘File’ at the top-left corner of the screen.
In the File menu, you’ll find an option labeled ‘Info.’ This is where you’ll find the version history. Select ‘Info’ to proceed to the next step.
Step 3: View Version History
Under ‘Info’, click on ‘Version History.’
This will display a list of previously saved versions of your document. Word automatically saves versions periodically, so you should see several entries.
Step 4: Select a Version
Browse through the list and click on the version you want to restore.
Clicking on a version will open it in a separate window. This allows you to review its contents before deciding to restore it.
Step 5: Restore the Version
Once you’re sure you’ve found the right version, click the ‘Restore’ button.
Restoring a version will overwrite the current document. If you’re not entirely sure, you can choose to save the older version as a new document instead.
After completing these steps, your Word document will revert to the selected earlier version. You can continue editing or reviewing the restored content from there.
Tips for Restoring Previous Versions of Word
- Save Regularly: Ensure your document is saved in OneDrive or SharePoint to take advantage of version history.
- Review Versions Before Restoring: Always review the previous version in a separate window to ensure it’s the correct one.
- Name Your Versions: Give specific names to versions when saving manually to keep track of different drafts.
- Use Version History for Collaboration: In collaborative settings, use version history to track changes made by different contributors.
- Backup Important Documents: Maintain a separate backup of critical documents to safeguard against data loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t see the Version History option?
You may not see the Version History option if your document isn’t saved in OneDrive or SharePoint. Save it there first to access this feature.
Can I restore a version without losing the current one?
Yes, you can open an earlier version and save it as a new document instead of overwriting the current one.
How often does Word save versions?
Word saves versions periodically. The frequency can depend on your settings, but it’s typically every 10 minutes.
Is Version History available in all versions of Word?
No, Version History is primarily available in Word 2016 and later, along with Office 365 versions.
Can I use Version History on a Mac?
Yes, Version History is available on both Windows and Mac, provided you’re using a supported Word version.
Summary
- Open the Document.
- Access Version History via ‘File’ and ‘Info.’
- View Version History.
- Select a Version.
- Restore the Version.
Conclusion
Restoring a previous version of a Word document can save you from the stress of lost content or unwanted changes. By following the steps outlined, you can easily navigate to an earlier version and restore it. Remember to keep your documents saved in OneDrive or SharePoint to utilize this feature fully. If you frequently work on important documents, consider reviewing the Version History regularly and naming your versions for better organization. Should you have more questions, the Frequently Asked Questions section above can offer additional insight. Happy writing, and may you never lose an essential piece of your work again!
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.