MS Word - Spell Check

In Microsoft Word, the Spell Check feature is used to check spelling, grammar, and writing style in your document. It helps you identify and correct mistakes automatically or manually, ensuring your content is accurate and professional.

1. Purpose of Spell Check

  • Detects spelling mistakes.

  • Suggests correct spellings.

  • Checks grammar errors.

  • Highlights writing style issues (in newer versions).

2. How to Use Spell Check

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcut

  • Press F7 → Opens the Spelling & Grammar dialog box.

Method 2: Using Ribbon Menu

  1. Go to the Review tab.

  2. In the Proofing group, click Spelling & Grammar.

  3. Word will start checking the document.

3. How Spell Check Works

When Word finds an error:

  • It highlights spelling mistakes with a red wavy underline.

  • It highlights grammar mistakes with a blue or green underline (depending on your Word version).

  • You can right-click on the underlined word or phrase to:

    • Choose the suggested correction.

    • Select Ignore to skip it.

    • Select Add to Dictionary if the word is correct but unknown to Word.

4. Types of Spell Check in Word

a) Automatic Spell Check

  • As you type, incorrect words are underlined in red.

  • Grammar issues may also be underlined in blue.

  • You can right-click to fix errors immediately.

b) Manual Spell Check

  • Press F7 or go to Review → Spelling & Grammar.

  • Word scans the entire document and suggests corrections.

5. Advanced Spell Check Options

You can customize spell check settings:

  1. Go to File → Options.

  2. Select Proofing.

  3. Configure settings such as:

    • Check spelling as you type

    • Mark grammar errors as you type

    • Suggest from main dictionary only

    • Ignore words in UPPERCASE

    • Custom dictionaries

6. Example

Before Spell Check:

I am writting a lettar to my collegue.

After Spell Check:

I am writing a letter to my colleague.

7. Tips for Better Spell Checking

  • Always review suggestions manually; Word isn’t perfect.

  • Add technical terms or names to Custom Dictionary to avoid repeated flags.

  • Use Grammar & Style Check for more professional writing.

  • Combine with Read Aloud in Word to spot errors quickly.