Changing the author name in Microsoft Word is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. By accessing the Word Options menu, you can update the author name to reflect your name or another author’s name. This change will apply to all new documents created from that point forward. Whether you’re sharing documents for collaboration or simply want to personalize your work, adjusting the author name is straightforward and quick.
How to Change Author Name in Word
Changing the author name in Word is all about customizing the information associated with your documents. Follow these steps to update the author name.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
Launch the Microsoft Word application on your computer.
Whether you’re using a blank document or an existing one, you have to open Word to get started. Just double-click the Word icon!
Step 2: Access the File Menu
Click on the ‘File’ tab located at the top left corner of the window.
The ‘File’ menu is your gateway to a world of options. It holds the key to settings and properties you might not even know you could control.
Step 3: Go to Options
Select ‘Options’ from the dropdown menu.
The ‘Options’ button is like the control center of Word. It’s where all the behind-the-scenes magic happens. Once you click it, a new window will pop up.
Step 4: Go to the General Tab
In the Word Options window, click on ‘General’.
The ‘General’ tab is the first stop. It’s filled with settings that affect the whole application, not just individual documents.
Step 5: Change the Author Name
Enter your desired author name in the ‘User name’ box, then click ‘OK’.
This is where the magic happens! Under ‘Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office’, type the name you want to appear as the author, and click ‘OK’ to save it. This name will be linked to all future documents, making it essential to get it right.
Once you’ve changed the author name, it will automatically update in all new documents you create. It won’t, however, change any pre-existing documents. So, if you open an old file, you might still see the old name. But moving forward, your new documents will proudly display your updated author name.
Make the new name stick when you’re signed in to Office
If Word keeps showing your Microsoft account name, check one more box in the same window.
- Go to File > Options > General.
- Under Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office, type the name in the User name box and your initials in the Initials box.
- Select Always use these values regardless of sign in to Office.
- Click OK.
The User name setting doesn’t rewrite the author saved in files you already have. To change it in a single document:
- Open the document and go to File > Info.
- On the right, find Author under Related People.
- Right-click the author’s name and choose Edit Property.
- Type the new name in the Edit person dialog box and click OK.
- Save the document.
This changes only that file. It has no effect on the User name in Word Options.
If you need to remove reviewer names from comments rather than change them, see how to make Word comments anonymous.
Tips for Changing Author Name in Word
- Double-check spelling: Ensure the name is spelled correctly to avoid mistakes in future documents.
- Consider privacy: Use initials or pseudonyms if you don’t want your real name displayed.
- Consistency matters: Keep the author name consistent across all your work for professionalism.
- Revisit settings: Occasionally check the author name settings, especially if others use your computer.
- Explore metadata: Be aware of how author names affect document metadata, especially for shared documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open the document, go to ‘File’ > ‘Info,’ and update the author name there.
Word doesn’t have separate author profiles. It uses one User name at a time, so to switch names, change it in File > Options > General, or edit the Author in File > Info for a single document.
No, it will only apply to new documents. Existing shared documents remain unchanged.
Yes, but the steps may vary slightly. Check the app settings for details.
While there’s no strict character limit, it’s best to keep it short and professional.
Does this also change my reviewer name for comments and Track Changes?
Yes. Word labels new comments and tracked changes with the User name and Initials from Word Options, so updating them changes your reviewer name too. Comments and revisions you made before the change keep the name that was set at the time.
Does the new user name apply to Excel and PowerPoint?
On Windows, the User name under Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office is shared by the Office apps, so new workbooks and presentations use it as well.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Access the File Menu.
- Go to Options.
- Navigate to the General Tab.
- Change the User name and click OK.
Conclusion
Changing the author name in Word is a handy feature that allows you to personalize your documents or prepare them for collaboration. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that all your future documents display the correct author information, enhancing both professionalism and clarity.
This process is not only easy but also a great way to manage the metadata associated with your files. Whether you’re an individual looking to leave your mark on every document or part of a team needing uniformity, changing the author name helps keep things organized and professional.
For further exploration, consider delving into other customization options in Word’s settings. You might find additional ways to streamline your workflow or personalize your user experience.
Now that you know how to change the author name in Word, why not give it a try? Start fresh with your next document and see how this simple tweak can make a big difference.
Matt has been writing about Microsoft Windows and other Microsoft products since the days of Windows XP. He spends much of his time writing for sites like WindowBrain.com