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Rotate handle doesn't appear on text boxes in Microsoft Word - how do I fix this?

Anonymous
2023-12-15T17:14:57+00:00

I was trying to learn how to make my text wording in MS Word appear at various angles (like you can do in Excel) and it seems the best way is to insert text boxes then use the rotation handle (curved arrow hook at top of text box) to spin it at all angles. However my rotation handle does not appear when I click the text box. How do I fix this?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For home | Other

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  1. Anonymous
    2023-12-15T17:20:02+00:00

    If the rotation handle (curved arrow hook) is not appearing at top of text box, then click:

    File> Info> Convert  (convert it out of Compatibility Mode) and then it shows up. 

    Can convert .doc or .docx or any type of Word.

    Compatibility Mode does not allow the rotation handle.

    20+ people found this answer helpful.
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  2. Anonymous
    2024-05-24T00:39:19+00:00

    I had the same problem! Eventually solved it by going to Shape Format Tab > WordArt Styles and selecting the expand arrow bottom right. This brings up pop up box on the right. Select layout & properties icon and untick 'Do not rotate text'.

    7 people found this answer helpful.
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  3. Anonymous
    2024-02-14T23:14:45+00:00

    If the rotation handle (curved arrow hook) is not appearing at top of text box, then click:

    File> Info> Convert  (convert it out of Compatibility Mode) and then it shows up. 

    Can convert .doc or .docx or any type of Word.

    Compatibility Mode does not allow the rotation handle.

     

    Why don't I get the "Convert" option after clicking File> Info?

    3 people found this answer helpful.
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  4. Stefan Blom 339.2K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2024-02-15T19:56:43+00:00

    For as long as the text box is active ("open for editing"), you won't see the rotated text. Click outside the text box and you should see it rotated:

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  5. Stefan Blom 339.2K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2024-02-15T00:07:57+00:00

    Is this Word for Windows?

    Do you see Compatibility Mode on the title bar?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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