Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated November 18, 2023)
This tip applies to Word 2013, 2016, 2019, Word in Microsoft 365, and 2021
When Steven opens Word, he sees a number of choices for either creating a blank document or using various templates as a basis for a new document. He always chooses to create a blank document. He wonders of there is a way to skip this opening palette of choices and simply go to a blank document from the get-go.
The behavior that Steven describes was introduced in Word 2013 and is called the Start screen. This feature can be controlled in Word in the following manner:
Figure 1. The General options of the Word Options dialog box.
Now, the next time you start Word, you won't be shown the Start screen. Instead, you'll see a blank document, the same as in earlier versions of Word.
WordTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Word training. (Microsoft Word is the most popular word processing software in the world.) This tip (8433) applies to Microsoft Word 2013, 2016, 2019, Word in Microsoft 365, and 2021.
Comprehensive VBA Guide Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is the language used for writing macros in all Office programs. This complete guide shows both professionals and novices how to master VBA in order to customize the entire Office suite for their needs. Check out Mastering VBA for Office 2010 today!
The rulers in Word can be quite helpful when formatting your document. The rulers may not be displayed all the time, ...
Discover MoreThe ribbon is the place where Word stores all the tools you need to work with your documents. What happens when the ...
Discover MoreWhen did Word add each new feature to the program? The answer isn't as clear-cut as you might think it is. This tip ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
2023-12-09 16:29:05
I cannot get this fix to work! HELP!! I've used this "fix" a zillion times and cannot open in blank format.
2023-11-20 09:44:51
Andrew
Gary, you can also simply type Ctrl-N (whether or not a document is open) to create a blank document based on your Normal template.
Andy.
2023-11-18 07:37:44
Gary Rees
Not sure if this is the correct forum for comments. I was absolutely overjoyed to read how you described how to get a blank document every time without the other options.
In my frustration I made a copy of the blank document and saved it in a Folder I created titled Blank Word Document. Each time I want a blank format to create a document all I do is upload the copy and create my document. Once completed I 'Save as' to where I want the document and that's all I need to do. The Blank copy remains for future use.
By the way I already receive you wonderful weekly tips.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Got a version of Word that uses the ribbon interface (Word 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Word, visit our WordTips site focusing on the menu interface.
Visit the WordTips channel on YouTube
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2024 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments