Before sharing a document, check if it has private information. You may also want to stop others from editing it. Microsoft Word has tools to help with this.

Using Document Inspector

When you create or edit a document, Word may add personal details, like the author’s name. You can remove this information using the Document Inspector.

Steps to Use Document Inspector:

1. Click the File tab to open Backstage View.
2. In the Info section, click Check for Issues.
   
   
   
3. Select Inspect Document from the drop-down menu.
   
   
   
4. The Document Inspector window will open. Select the content you want to check. Click Inspect.
   
   
   
5. If Word finds private data, it will show an exclamation mark. Click Remove All to delete it.
6. Click Close when done.

Tip: Save a backup copy before using Document Inspector. Some changes cannot be undone.

Protecting Your Document

By default, anyone can open and edit your document. You can protect it to prevent unwanted changes.

Steps to Protect Your Document:

1. Click the File tab to open Backstage View.
2. In the Info section, click Protect Document.
3. Choose a protection option.
   
   
   
   • Select Mark as Final to discourage editing.
   • Other options give more control.
4. A box will appear asking you to save. Click OK.
   
   
   
5. Another box will appear. Click OK again.
   
   
   

Now, when someone opens the document, they will see a message saying it is final. However, they can still click Edit Anyway to make changes.

Note: To fully stop editing, use the Restrict Access option.