Microsoft Word Not Opening Files – Know the Fixes

Earlier, we used to write with pen and paper but now we use Word document files on computer. Microsoft Word is a familiar name for MS Office users as this application is used for writing, saving and maintaining text documents. But sometimes, the Word files face corruption issues and users face difficulty while facing the error that Microsoft Word not opening files.

Microsoft Word not Opening Files

If you also have related problems and looking for easy and quick solutions to open and repair corrupt Word file, then this is precisely the right blog for you. Here, we will explain you step by step process of how to resolve Word file not opening issue. Before going to the solution it is necessary to know the reasons behind this problem.

Why Showing Microsoft Word Not Opening Files Error?

Here are some of the major reasons that causes Word documents not opening error:

  1. File Size: Large Word file size leads to file corruption and it becomes really difficult if the Word files are bulky.
  2. Sudden Closure: The unfortunate closing of Word files may also be the reason.
  3. Incomplete Download: Interruptions while downloading a Word file will surely damages the file.
  4. File Location: Another reason of reflecting the error is that if your file is located in a directory which is infected by some Virus or Malware then, it will corrupt your file as well.
  5. File Corruption: One of the most important reasons for the Word file not opening is that the file gets corrupted.

How to Resolve Word File Not Opening Issue?

If Microsoft Word not opening files and stops responding, then first try to install the latest updates and disable the add-ins. Still giving same results? Switch to the advanced troubleshooting methods mentioned below:

Method 1: Automatic Repair Word 2003 /2007 /2010 /2013 /2016

  1. In Windows 10, 8 or 7, Open Control Panel, click and select “Programs and Features” and after that “Microsoft Office”.
  2. On the window, click “Repair” and after that “Continue”.
  3. Opt for “Online Repair” & “Quick Repair”. Let repair process finish its work and restart your computer.

Method 2: Delete Normal .dot file

  1. Open My Computer or This PC in latest Windows versions, and in the search box, enter Normal .dot and search.
  2. Only search and delete the Normal. dot file in the path: C:\Users\Administrator\App Data\Roaming\Microsoft\Templates to repair corrupt Word file.
Microsoft Word Not Opening Files

Are you still facing “Microsoft Word not opening files” error even after performing the aforesaid steps? Then, your Word file must be corrupted.

Solution to Repair Corrupt Word File

SysTools Word Recovery Tool is a pro for repairing and recovering Word files. This tool has some salient features which makes it unique from the manual method.

  • Bulk repair Word file with all the attachments.
  • Repair files or folder without any data loss.
  • Option to Preview before saving the file with or without formatting.
  • Installation of Microsoft Office is not required to repair Word document.
  • Supported by all Windows OS versions like Windows 10, 8.1, 8 and so on.
  • Suitable in recovering files with multiple pages.
  • Supports Office versions 2019, 2016, 2013, etc.

Steps to Fix Damaged Word File

SysTools Word Repair Tool comes with user intuitive interface which is beneficial for the non-professional users. A lay man can also use this tool with utmost ease.

Step 1: Open and launch the software. Add File(s) or Folder as per your requirement.

Add Files

Step 2: The tool will repair corrupt Word files and provide the recovered files in the healthy state.

Repair Word file

Step 3: Select files to preview Word files with or without formatting.

Preview Options

Step 4: Save the recovered Microsoft Word document in the desired location and this way you can rectify the error of Microsoft Word not opening files.

Save file in the desired location

Last words:

In the above blog we have discussed the errors that the users face while opening a Microsoft Word file. It becomes really annoying if these type of error occurs. To help users, we have collated different manual and professional methods to fix up the error of Microsoft Word not opening files. If users Word file is corrupted, then we also discussed the solution to repair corrupt Word files. Now, users should consider the situation and pick up the right solution according to their need.

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Article Author Details

Maisie Turner