Changing to dark mode in Microsoft Word is a simple way to give your eyes a break and personalize your workspace. You can switch between dark mode and light mode in just a few clicks. All you need is to access the settings in Word, either on Windows or Mac, and make the adjustment in the display options. This quick guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can work comfortably with your preferred background color.
How to Change Dark Mode on Word
By following these steps, you can easily switch Microsoft Word to dark mode, making it easier on your eyes, especially in low-light conditions.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
Launch the Microsoft Word application on your computer.
This can be done by clicking on the Word icon on your desktop or finding it in the start menu or applications folder, depending on your operating system.
Step 2: Access the Options Menu
Click on "File" in the top navigation bar and then select "Options" from the drop-down menu.
The Options menu is your gateway to customizing how Word behaves and looks. It’s where you’ll find all the settings for personalizing your Word experience.
In the Word Options window, click on the "General" tab.
This tab contains several settings, including those for user interface options. It’s where you’ll find the theme settings we’re looking for.
Step 4: Choose Your Office Theme
Find the "Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office" section and select "Black" or "Dark Gray" from the Office Theme drop-down menu.
These theme options are what control the appearance of Word’s user interface, including the background color and text contrast, to give your eyes a break from bright screens.
Step 5: Apply Changes and Exit
Click "OK" to save your changes and close the Options window.
Your changes will take effect immediately, and Word should now display in the dark mode you’ve selected, allowing for a more comfortable reading and writing environment.
After completing these steps, you’ll notice that the Word interface has transformed into dark mode. This change affects the background of the menus and toolbars, providing a darker, more visually soothing environment. Your document’s page, however, will still display in white unless further adjustments are made.
Control whether the page turns dark too
In Word for Microsoft 365, the Black theme can darken the document page as well as the ribbon. Dark Gray keeps the page white. If you use Black and want to flip the page between dark and white, select View > Switch Modes. To keep the page white every time, go to File > Options > General and check Never change the document page color.
You can also pick the theme from File > Account > Office Theme. Choosing Use system setting makes Word match your Windows light or dark mode automatically. A theme change applies to all your Office apps on that computer, not just Word.
Turn on dark mode in Word for Mac
Word for Mac has no separate theme menu. It follows the macOS appearance.
- Open the Apple menu > System Settings > Appearance.
- Choose Dark.
- If Word stays light, open Word > Preferences > General (called Settings in newer versions) and make sure Turn off Dark Mode is not selected.
Turn on dark mode in Word for the web
Word in a browser has its own dark mode switch that does not depend on your desktop theme.
- Open the document in Word for the web.
- Click the View tab.
- Click Dark Mode. The ribbon and the page turn dark.
- To keep the dark ribbon but show a white page, click Switch Background on the same tab.
Click Dark Mode again to go back to light mode. The Word apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android follow your phone or tablet’s dark mode setting.
Word for the web runs inside your browser, so if you use Edge you can also turn on dark mode in Microsoft Edge to darken the tabs and toolbars around the document.
Tips for Changing Dark Mode on Word
- Consider your environment: Dark mode is particularly beneficial in low-light settings as it reduces eye strain.
- Experiment with themes: If black is too dark, try the dark gray theme for a softer look.
- Check other apps: Many other Microsoft Office applications offer similar dark mode settings.
- Beware of print preview: Dark mode only affects your view; printed documents will remain unchanged.
- Stay updated: Ensure your version of Word is up-to-date to access the latest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use dark mode?
Dark mode can help reduce eye strain and fatigue, especially in low-light environments.
Can I change back to light mode anytime?
Yes, you can switch back to light mode by following the same steps and selecting the "Colorful" or "White" theme.
Does dark mode affect printed documents?
No, dark mode only changes the on-screen display. Printed documents will look the same as always.
Is dark mode available on all devices?
Dark mode is available on most devices that run Microsoft Word, including Windows and Mac computers.
Will dark mode affect my document contents?
No, only the interface changes. Your document text and formatting remain unaffected.
Why don’t I see a dark mode option in Word?
It depends on your version. Word 2013 has no true dark theme; its darkest choice is Dark Gray. The Black theme is in newer versions such as Word 2019, Word 2021, and Microsoft 365, and only Microsoft 365 can darken the page itself and show View > Switch Modes. If Office Theme is set to Use system setting, Word only turns dark when Windows is in dark mode.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Access the Options menu.
- Navigate to the General tab.
- Choose your Office theme.
- Apply changes and exit.
Conclusion
Switching to dark mode in Microsoft Word is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your reading and writing experience. By reducing glare and minimizing eye strain, dark mode allows for longer, more comfortable work sessions without the harshness of a bright screen. This feature is especially beneficial for night owls or those who work in dimly lit environments, providing a softer, more visually appealing backdrop.
Always remember that while your Word interface may have a new look, your document’s content remains the same. You can toggle between dark and light modes anytime, giving you the flexibility to customize your workspace according to your needs.
If you want to explore even more customization options, consider delving into Word’s extensive list of settings. You might discover additional features that can make your Word experience even more tailored to your preferences. So go ahead, try out dark mode, and make your document creation process as pleasant as possible.
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