Setting Microsoft Word as your default word processor is a straightforward process that ensures every time you open a document, it opens in Word. Here’s a quick overview: Head to your Start Menu or Control Panel, find your Default Programs settings, and change your default app for opening documents to Word. Voila! Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide.
How to Set Word as Default
Making Microsoft Word your default word processor means that every time you click on a .docx file (or any word document), it’ll open in Word without you having to right-click and select it manually. Here’s how you can do it.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Head to the bottom-left corner of your screen and click on the Start Menu.
This is where you access all the applications on your computer. Think of it as the doorway to your computer’s settings and programs.
Step 2: Open Settings
Click on the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
This will take you to the control center of your computer where you can adjust various settings, including default applications.
Step 3: Go to Apps
In the Settings menu, select the “Apps” option.
Here, you’ll find a list of all the applications installed on your computer. This is where we’ll set Word as the default app for opening documents.
Step 4: Select Default Apps
On the left-hand menu, click on “Default apps.”
This section lets you choose which applications open different types of files by default, such as web browsers for internet links, music players for audio files, and word processors for documents.
Step 5: Change Default Word Processor
Scroll down to the “Word” option under “Default apps.” Click on it, and choose Microsoft Word from the list.
Now, every time you open a document file, it will automatically open in Word. Easy, right?
After completing these steps, your computer will default to opening all document files in Microsoft Word. You won’t have to worry about manually selecting Word every time you want to open a .docx file.
Tips for Setting Word as Default
- Make sure Microsoft Word is installed on your computer before starting this process.
- Restart your computer after making these changes to ensure they take effect.
- Check file associations manually if the default setting doesn’t seem to work.
- Use the Control Panel for older versions of Windows if you can’t find the settings in the Start Menu.
- Keep your Word application updated to avoid compatibility issues with newer document formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Word is my default word processor?
After completing the steps, try opening a document file. If it opens in Word, then you’re all set!
Can I change the default back to another word processor?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and choose a different app in the “Default apps” section.
Do I need an active Microsoft Office subscription?
Having an active subscription ensures you have the latest version of Word and its features, but it’s not a necessity for setting it as the default.
What if Word isn’t listed in the default apps?
Ensure that Word is properly installed on your computer. If it is, try restarting your computer, and then check again.
Can I set different defaults for different file types?
Yes, you can set different default programs for different file types by changing the file associations in the “Choose default apps by file type” section of the Default apps menu.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Select Default apps.
- Change Default Word Processor.
Conclusion
There you have it! Setting Microsoft Word as your default word processor can save you a ton of time and hassle. No more right-clicking and manually selecting Word every time you open a document. This straightforward process ensures that your computer always knows to use Word for your document needs.
If you’re new to this, don’t worry. It’s like learning to ride a bike—once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. If you have any trouble or see any errors, don’t hesitate to review the steps or check the FAQs for solutions.
Make sure to keep your Microsoft Word application updated to avoid any issues with compatibility. And remember, you can always change your default settings back if needed. Happy writing!
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.