If you’re experiencing font color issues in Microsoft Word 365 where changes to font size or font color aren’t applying correctly, the issue may not be within Word itself but rather a setting in Windows 11. A surprising yet effective fix is to reset your Windows 11 theme to a default one. This article will guide you through the troubleshooting process and provide a reliable solution.
Common Font Color Issues in Word 365
Many users report the following font-related problems in Word 365:
- Changes to font color do not apply or appear as default black.
- Adjusting the font size has no effect.
- Text appears faded, invisible, or in unexpected colors.
- The cursor behaves strangely when formatting text.
If you’re facing these issues, resetting your Windows theme could be the fix you need.
Why Does Windows 11 Affect Font Colors in Word 365?
Microsoft Word 365 integrates with Windows system settings, including accessibility features and theme-related configurations. If a custom or high-contrast theme is active, it can interfere with how fonts and colors appear in Office applications. Switching back to a default Windows theme resolves these conflicts and restores proper formatting functionality.
How to Reset Windows 11 Theme to Fix Font Issues in Word 365
Follow these steps to change your Windows 11 theme back to default:
Method 1: Using Personalization Settings
- Right-click on your desktop and select Personalize.
- Click on Themes from the left-hand menu.
- Choose either Windows (Light) or Windows (Dark) theme.
- Close the settings window and restart Microsoft Word to see if the issue is resolved.
Method 2: Changing High Contrast Settings
If a high-contrast theme is enabled, it may override font colors in Word 365.
- Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
- Navigate to Accessibility > Contrast themes.
- Select None and click Apply.
- Restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
Method 3: Restoring Default Colors and Appearance
If your text still appears incorrectly in Word, ensure your Windows color settings are correct:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
- Set Choose your mode to either Light or Dark.
- Turn Transparency effects On.
Once these changes are made, reopen Microsoft Word 365 and test the font settings.
Additional Tips to Prevent Font Issues in Word 365
- Keep Microsoft Office updated to the latest version.
- Disable third-party themes or customization software that may override Windows settings.
- Use Microsoft’s Office Repair Tool by going to Control Panel > Programs > Microsoft 365 > Modify > Quick Repair.
- If issues persist, try resetting Word settings by renaming the Normal.dotm template (Microsoft Support Guide).
Conclusion
If font colors and sizes in Microsoft Word 365 are not updating correctly, the problem might be tied to Windows 11 theme settings. Resetting your theme to a default option is a simple yet effective solution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore Word’s formatting functionality and eliminate frustrating font-related issues.
For more troubleshooting solutions related to Microsoft Word, visit Microsoft’s official troubleshooting page.
By implementing these fixes, you can ensure that your Microsoft Word 365 fonts and colors function correctly. Let us know if you found this guide helpful!