Word keeps shutting down an dnot saving changes todoc

Diaper, Charles 1 0 Reputation points
2026-07-23T09:26:06.05+00:00

Just started a day ago.

Writing a dissertation on Word with the Zotero plugin, both up to date. OS up to date

When adding a citation/footnote or pasting an image, I get an image attached.

Problem persists when either or both programs are restarted and when the computer has a full shutdown. virus screening done an dall clear

Help!!!! (whimper)

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For education | MacOS
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  1. Killian N 2,650 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-07-23T09:48:48.56+00:00

    Hi  

    Since the issue began recently and seems to occur when adding citations/footnotes through Zotero or when inserting images, it may be related to the interaction between Word, the document content, or an add-in. Further troubleshooting will help identify the exact cause. 

    Could you please try the following checks: 

    1/ Start Word in Safe Mode 

    • Press Windows + R 
    • Type: winword /safe 
    • Open the dissertation and test adding a citation or image. 

    2/ Disable the Zotero Add-in Temporarily 

    • In Word: File > Options > Add-ins 
    • At the bottom, select COM Add-ins and click Go 
    • Untick Zotero 
    • Restart Word and test pasting an image. 

    3/ Test with a New Document 

    • Create a blank Word document. 
    • Try inserting an image and adding a footnote. 
    • This helps determine whether the issue is document-specific. 

    4/ Check AutoRecover Settings 

    • Go to File > Options > Save 
    • Ensure Save AutoRecover information every X minutes is enabled. 
    • Note the AutoRecover file location in case recovery files need to be retrieved. 

    5/ Repair Office 

    • Open Control Panel > Programs and Features 
    • Select Microsoft 365/Office 
    • Choose Change > Quick Repair 
    • If the problem continues, run Online Repair. 

    Note: Please understand that my initial response does not always resolve the issue immediately. However, with your help and more detailed information, we can work together to find a solution.  

    I hope this information is useful. Additionally, as other users have raised similar concerns and may not be aware of where to share their feedback, I hope this response helps clarify the situation and suggests a potential next step. Highlighting this information can make it more visible to others in the community who may be facing the same issue, making it easier for them to find guidance and contribute their feedback as well. 

    Thank you again for your time and for raising this important usability concern. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. 

    I look forward to your thoughts on this. 


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