Disabling Microsoft Word 2016’s dark mode is a simple process that can make your document viewing experience more comfortable for your eyes. If you prefer the classic white background over the sleek dark mode, this guide will walk you through the steps to switch back to the light theme.
Step by Step Tutorial to Disable Microsoft Word 2016 Dark Mode
Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand why you might want to disable dark mode. Dark mode is designed to reduce eye strain, especially in low-light conditions. However, some users find the dark background with light text harder to read or just prefer the traditional look of a white background. Whatever your reason, here’s how to disable it.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word 2016
Launch Microsoft Word 2016 on your computer. Make sure you are on the main screen where you can choose to open a new document or a recent one.
Step 2: Go to File
Click on the “File” tab located in the upper-left corner of the screen. This will bring up the backstage view where you can manage your Word settings and documents.
Step 3: Select Account
On the left-hand side of the screen, you will see a list of options. Click on “Account” which can usually be found towards the bottom of the list.
Step 4: Change Office Theme
Under the “Office Theme” section, you will see a dropdown menu. Click on it and select “Colorful” or “White” to disable the dark mode.
Step 5: Close and Restart Word
After selecting your desired theme, close Microsoft Word 2016 and then reopen it. Your changes should now be in effect and dark mode will be disabled.
After completing the action, your Microsoft Word 2016 will revert to the light theme. This means that you will have a white background with black text which is the default setting for Microsoft Word. The change will apply to all documents you open in Word, providing a consistent viewing experience.
Tips for Disabling Microsoft Word 2016 Dark Mode
- Ensure that you have saved all your work before closing Word to avoid losing any unsaved changes.
- If you frequently switch between dark and light mode, consider using keyboard shortcuts to speed up the process.
- Remember that the office theme you choose will apply to all other Microsoft Office applications as well, such as Excel and PowerPoint.
- If you’re not sure which theme you prefer, try each one for a day to see which is easier on your eyes.
- Keep in mind that the appearance of images and graphics may vary depending on the background color of your theme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want to disable dark mode?
Some users find it easier to read and edit documents with a light background, or they may simply prefer the look of the classic white background over the dark mode.
Will disabling dark mode affect my documents?
No, disabling dark mode will not affect the content of your documents. It will only change the appearance of the Word interface and background.
Is it possible to customize the themes beyond just light and dark?
Yes, Microsoft Word 2016 offers additional theme options such as “Colorful” which adds a splash of color to the interface while maintaining a light background.
Can I switch back to dark mode later if I change my mind?
Absolutely, you can switch back and forth between dark and light mode as often as you like by following the same steps.
Does disabling dark mode impact performance?
No, the theme you choose is purely cosmetic and has no impact on the performance of Microsoft Word 2016.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word 2016.
- Click on “File”.
- Select “Account”.
- Choose “Colorful” or “White” in the Office Theme dropdown.
- Close and restart Word.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you’re a night owl who loves the sleek look of dark mode or a traditionalist who prefers the classic white backdrop, Microsoft Word 2016 gives you the flexibility to toggle between themes. Disabling dark mode is a straightforward process that you can do in just a few clicks, and it can significantly impact your document viewing experience. Remember, the choice of theme is a personal preference, and you should opt for whatever feels best for your eyes. So go ahead, give it a try – your perfect Word environment is just a few steps away. And if you ever find yourself missing the dark side of Word, switching back is just as easy.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.