Please Note: This article is written for users of the following Microsoft Word versions: 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. If you are using a later version (Word 2007 or later), this tip may not work for you. For a version of this tip written specifically for later versions of Word, click here: Hiding Errors.
Word includes handy spelling and grammar checkers that can take the hard edges off some of your writing. Sometimes, however, it is nice to turn those features off so you aren't distracted by the red and green squiggly lines as you are feverishly typing your masterpiece.
If you are using a version of Word prior to Word 2007, you probably already know that you can use settings on the Spelling & Grammar tab of the Options dialog box to hide both spelling and grammar errors. An easier way to turn errors on and off is to simply right-click on the Spelling and Grammar Status icon on the status bar. (This icon looks like an open book, sometimes with either a pencil or a red X over it.) When you right-click you can see a Context menu that allows you to turn error display on or off.
WordTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Word training. (Microsoft Word is the most popular word processing software in the world.) This tip (934) applies to Microsoft Word 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Word (Word 2007 and later) here: Hiding Errors.
Discover the Power of Microsoft Office This beginner-friendly guide reveals the expert tips and strategies you need to skyrocket your productivity and use Office 365 like a pro. Mastering software like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential to be more efficient and advance your career. Simple lessons guide you through every step, providing the knowledge you need to get started. Check out Microsoft Office 365 For Beginners today!
If you ever need to check the spelling or grammar of a document from scratch, it can be confusing knowing the proper ...
Discover MoreYou can change the way Word handles spelling and grammar checks through the menus. But there is a quicker way to access ...
Discover MoreSpell check a document, and Word normally checks several different dictionaries. Here's how to limit the dictionary ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Word that uses the menu interface (Word 97, Word 2000, Word 2002, or Word 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Word, visit our WordTips site focusing on the ribbon interface.
Visit the WordTips channel on YouTube
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Please Note:
This article is written for users of the following Microsoft Word versions: 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. If you are using a later version (Word 2007 or later), this tip may not work for you. For a version of this tip written specifically for later versions of Word, click here: 
Comments