Developer Tab Legacy tools in Word

Question

I am trying to develop a simple application form and I need to put things like fillable text boxes, check boxes and selection options. Microsoft word used to have this, and it used to be so easy, but now I cannot get the Developer's tab to display any of those options even when I go to Preferences and tell it to. What is the problem? I'm using a Macbook Pro.

Answer 1

Hi GAIL WATSON, I understand how frustrating this must feel Word used to make this so simple and now it feels like you’re jumping through hoops just to add basic form fields.

On Word for Mac turn on the Developer tab in Preferences under Ribbon and Toolbar then use Legacy Tools to add text fields checkboxes or dropdowns. Double click to set properties and enable Protect Form so they are fillable. Note that Mac only supports legacy controls and modern options like date pickers require Windows or an add in.

What is the main goal for your form just collecting basic information or do you need advanced features like date pickers and dynamic fields?

Best regards

Lucky

Answer 2

to Bob Jones AKA CyberTaz MVP I will try rebooting. In the meantime macOS Tahoe V26.1. License is Microsoft 365 Subscription.

Answer 3

Lucky I prepared a response but it got deleted, so I'll try again. See my settings and ribbon appearance below. The purpose of the form is for members of a genealogy society to request research help. We want a simple fillable pdf that can be emailed. Text boxes (name, email address, etc), selection options (new member ancestor or supplemental ancestor? application submitted and rejected or are you still preparing it? If submitted and rejected, was it poor format or unproven lineage or both?) Check boxes for any type of specialized research (I think this list is what violated the code of conduct) Long text box (describe the assistance you desire).