Microsoft Word is finally adding a shortcut to paste plain text — here’s how to try it
A popular feature from Word for the web and other apps is making its way to Word for Windows and Mac.
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What you need to know
Microsoft Word will soon support the option to “Paste Text Only” through a keyboard shortcut. The word processor will allow users to paste text without any formatting by usingCtrl+Shift+Von Windows or theCmd+Shift+Von Mac. That combination of keys already pastes plain text in Microsoft Teams, Word for the web, Gmail, and some other applications. It’s now making its way to the desktop versions of Word.
The Plain Text Only shortcut is now available for Microsoft 365 Home and Microsoft 365 Business Standard Insiders running Windows version 16.0.15831.20174 or later or Mac version 16.67.1113.0 or later. As a reminder theOffice Insider Program was renamedto the Microsoft 365 Insider program earlier this year.
Microsoft announced the feature in anInsider Office blog post. There, the company outlines the steps to use the shortcut:
It’s possible to fine-tune what happens when you paste plain text, such as keeping bullet points when using the Keep Text Only option. This can be done through the Advanced section of Word Options.
Microsoft Word on Windows and Mac already supported pasting plain text, but it’s now easier to do so.
Microsoft also announced the following changes to shortcuts:
If you don’t like the new keyboard shortcuts, you can revert to previous settings. Microsoft has asupport documentto walk you through that process.
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If you’re a fan of pasting plain text, it’s possible to do so anywhere on Windows. Arecent update to PowerToysadded the option to paste plain text into any app. That has the benefit of working anywhere but the downside is that using that utility replaces any copied text with reformatted text within the clipboard. That means you are unable to paste text with formatting in some documents and without formatting in others.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
