If more than one editor is working on a Microsoft Word document, tracking changes can be very helpful. This article will show you, how to make changes visible and what to consider.
How to track changes in Microsoft Word
Tracking changes in Microsoft Word is quite simple. Open a new document, find the tab named “Review” and choose the button “Track changes”.
You can track changes in Microsoft Word very easily (c) Screenshot
After selecting this option you can see all changes in your text. They are highlighted by red lines on the left side of the document.
Comments from all editors will be shown in a speech bubble on the right side of the document.
If you click on one of the red lines or the speech bubbles, the content will be shown.
Change from the option “Simple Markup” to the option “All Markup” to see every change immediately.
Choosing a markup option in Microsoft Word (c) Screenshot
Customized track changes
You can also choose further markup options by changing the general settings.
Click on the tab “Review” and move to the section “Tracking”.
Find the symbol showing an arrow in a box and choose it.
Microsoft Word will open a new window. Choose the changes, that you want to track.
Customize your markup options for tracking in Word (c) Screenshot
Lock change tracking in Microsoft Word
You can also lock change tracking. This can be helpful, if you want to make sure, that all editors of your document use the function.
Choose the tab “Review” and move your curser to the button “Track changes”. There you will find a small triangle.
Click on this symbol and choose “Lock tracking”.
Microsoft Word will ask you for a password for unlocking later on. Choose one you will remember.
Lock change tracking if all document user changes should be tracked (c) Screenshot
