How to Set Word to Dark Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide - Support Your Tech (2024)

Setting up dark mode on Microsoft Word is a breeze, and it can really give your eyes a break from the glare of a bright screen. Just a few simple steps and you’ll be looking at a sleek, dark interface that’s easier on the eyes, especially during those late-night work sessions.

Step by Step Tutorial: How to Set Word to Dark Mode

To get started with setting your Word document to dark mode, first, make sure you have the latest version of Microsoft Office. Dark mode is a newer feature, so it’s essential to have the latest updates installed.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Word

Open the Word document you want to view in dark mode.

Step 2: Go to the File Menu

Click on the ‘File’ menu located in the top left corner of the screen.

In the File menu, you’ll find various options for managing your Word document. You’ll need to navigate through these options to find the one that sets dark mode.

Step 3: Select ‘Account’

Scroll down in the File menu and select ‘Account’, which is usually near the bottom of the list.

The Account section is where you can manage your Office settings and personalize your experience. This is where the magic happens.

Step 4: Choose ‘Office Theme’

Under the Office Theme dropdown menu, select ‘Black’.

The Office Theme dropdown menu lets you choose from different themes, including colorful, dark gray, and black. Selecting ‘Black’ will change the interface to dark mode.

Step 5: Close the Menu

Close the menu, and your Word interface should now be in dark mode.

Once you close the menu, the changes should take effect immediately. You’ll notice the ribbon, background, and toolbars have all switched to darker shades.

After completing these steps, your Word document will be displayed in dark mode. This can help reduce eye strain and make working on documents for extended periods more comfortable.

Tips for Using Word in Dark Mode

• If you find the dark mode too dark, you can try the ‘Dark Gray’ option for a slightly lighter interface.
• Keep in mind that dark mode only affects the interface of Word, not the actual document. If you want to print your document, it will still print in the standard white background with black text.
• If you’re using Word in a brightly lit room or outside, you might want to switch back to a lighter theme for better visibility.
• Remember to update Word regularly to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes, including improvements to dark mode.
• If you’re using Word on a Mac, the steps to enable dark mode may be slightly different, so be sure to check the specific instructions for your operating system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does dark mode affect how my document will print?

No, dark mode only changes the appearance on your screen. Documents will print with a white background and black text regardless of the interface theme.

Can I set dark mode as the default theme?

Yes, once you set Word to dark mode, it will remain that way until you change it back or reset your Office theme preferences.

Will dark mode work on all versions of Word?

Dark mode is available on Word for Office 365 and Word 2019. If you’re using an older version, you may not have access to this feature.

Is dark mode available for Word on mobile devices?

Yes, Word on mobile devices also has a dark mode feature, but the steps to enable it may vary depending on your device.

Can I customize the colors in dark mode?

No, the colors in dark mode are preset and cannot be customized in Word.

Summary

1. Open Microsoft Word.
2. Click on the ‘File’ menu.
3. Select ‘Account’.
4. Choose the ‘Black’ option under Office Theme.
5. Close the menu to apply changes.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – the lowdown on how to set Word to dark mode. Whether you’re a night owl, working in a dimly lit environment, or simply prefer the aesthetics of a darker interface, enabling dark mode can make a significant difference in your comfort and productivity. Not only does it look cool, but it also goes easy on your eyes, letting you work for longer without the strain. Plus, it’s a simple way to give your Word application a bit of a personalized touch. Go ahead, give your eyes a break and dive into the darker side of Word. After all, sometimes the dark side isn’t that bad, especially when it’s just a click away in your favorite word processing software.

Matt Jacobs

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.