How to Turn Off OverType Mode in Microsoft Word

While you type text in a Microsoft Word document, you may notice the letters that you are typing are replacing letters already in the document. This is called "overtyping" and can be quite frustrating to many users. Follow the steps below to turn off the Overtype mode.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Word 2003

Instructions

1. Start Microsoft Word 2003 and open an existing document. You can also start a new, blank document.

2. Locate the letters "OVR" on the status bar at the bottom of the screen. If these letters are bold, then overtype mode is on. A dimmed "OVR" means that Overtype mode is off.

3. Choose the "Tool" menu and click "Options."

4. Select the "Edit" tab from the top of the "Options" dialog box.

5. Click the check box to remove the check from the check box in front of "Overtype mode" under the "Editing options" section of the "Options" dialog box.

6. Click the "OK" button to close the "Options" dialog box and turn off the Overtype mode.

Tips & Warnings

• You can temporarily turn off the Overtype mode in Microsoft Word by pressing the "Insert" key on your keyboard. When you do this, the "OVR" command on the status bar should change from solid (on) to dimmed (off).