How To Turn Off Dark Mode in Microsoft Word (FAST & EASY) - Windows & Mac
Learn how to easily turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word for Windows and Mac. Follow our quick, step-by-step guide to switch back to a white background.
Key Takeaways
While Dark Mode is a popular feature for reducing eye strain, many users prefer the traditional light theme for writing, reading, and editing documents. If you are trying to switch back to the classic white background, this guide will show you exactly how to turn off dark mode in Microsoft Word.
Whether you are using a PC or an Apple computer, the process is fast and easy. Follow the steps below for your specific operating system.
How to Turn Off Dark Mode in Microsoft Word on Windows
Disabling dark mode on a Windows PC takes just a few clicks from the main menu.
FAQ
Why do users prefer to disable dark mode in Microsoft Word?
While Dark Mode is a popular feature for reducing eye strain, many users prefer to turn it off to restore the traditional light theme. The classic white background is often considered more familiar and comfortable for writing, reading, and editing documents.
Does disabling dark mode require me to restart Microsoft Word?
No, a restart is not required. Whether you are on a Windows PC or a Mac, your interface and document background will immediately revert to the standard light mode as soon as you update your theme preferences.
Click on File in the top-left corner of the screen.
Select Account located at the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Locate the Office Theme section.
Click the dropdown menu and select White.
Once you select "White," your interface will instantly update, and dark mode will be completely disabled.
How to Disable Dark Mode in Word on Mac
On a Mac, the theme settings are slightly more buried in the preferences menu. Here is how to find and change them:
Open Microsoft Word.
Click on the Word menu in the top menu bar (next to the Apple logo).
Select Preferences... from the dropdown options.
Click on General.
Look under the Personalize section.
Check the box or select the option to Turn off Dark Mode.
Close the settings window.
Your document background and menus will immediately revert to the standard light mode.
Quick Reference Summary
If you frequently switch between devices, here is a quick cheat sheet for finding the dark mode toggle on both operating systems:
Operating System
Navigation Path
Setting to Change
Windows
File > Account
Under "Office Theme", select "White"
Mac
Word > Preferences... > General
Under "Personalize", select "Turn off Dark Mode"
Keep Learning
Now that you have successfully turned off dark mode in Microsoft Word on both Windows and Mac, you might be looking for more ways to optimize your workflow. Check out this video next to keep learning valuable tips and tricks!
Where can I find more ways to optimize my Microsoft Word workflow?
If you are looking for more ways to improve your productivity after adjusting your appearance settings, you can check out this video tutorial to keep learning valuable tips and tricks.
