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How to turn on text overwrite function

Anonymous
2012-03-20T22:26:44+00:00

I am new to Windows 7.  In Microsoft Word, how can I turn on the text overwrite function so that the text is overwritten instead of being inserted?  Thanks for your help.  EB

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For home | Windows

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Suzanne S Barnhill 278.1K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
2012-03-21T12:17:50+00:00

It sounds as if you have some version of Word 2010. In that version, the Insert key toggle is disabled by default. If you have a tendency to hit the Insert key unintentionally (all too easy to do when aiming for Backspace or Delete), you may want to leave it this way and just add the toggle to the status bar instead. Right-click the status bar and, on the menu, click on Overtype to put a check beside it. You will then see Overtype or Insert on the status bar; clicking on that space will toggle the function.

If you do want to enable the Insert key, however, go to File | Options | Advanced: Editing options and check the box for "Use the Insert key to control overtype mode."

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  1. Suzanne S Barnhill 278.1K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2012-03-21T22:07:36+00:00

    I hadn't realized that Insert is disabled in Word 2007 as well, but I will update your metadata above to reflect the version you have.

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  2. Anonymous
    2012-03-21T12:45:01+00:00

    I have Office 2007.  I received the information needed to correct the problem.  Thank you very much for your help.  Have a blessed day.

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  3. Anonymous
    2012-03-21T12:43:19+00:00

    Thank you so much for your help.  That worked!!  (That option is pretty far embedded in the settings.)  I appreciate your help.

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  4. Anonymous
    2012-03-21T11:59:36+00:00

    What is the version of Office Word installed?

    You may refer the article below and check if that helps:

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/982946

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