Need to spot differences between drafts? Whether you’re proofreading, editing, or reviewing revisions, the Compare Two Word Documents feature in Microsoft Word helps you identify all changes quickly and accurately. 📄🔍
This guide walks you through how to compare two Word files using built-in tools in Windows, macOS, and even online alternatives.
What Is the Compare Feature in Microsoft Word?
The Compare tool in Word allows you to:
- Highlight additions, deletions, and formatting changes
- Merge document versions
- Accept or reject revisions
- Track who made the changes
It’s perfect for collaborative projects, contracts, legal documents, or academic papers.
How to Compare Two Word Documents (Windows)
- Open Microsoft Word
- Click the Review tab in the ribbon
- Select Compare > Compare…
- In the dialog box:
- Choose the Original document
- Choose the Revised document
- Click OK
Word will open a side-by-side comparison with the differences clearly marked.
✨ You can navigate changes using the Revisions pane.
How to Compare Two Word Documents (macOS)
- Launch Microsoft Word
- Go to the Tools menu
- Select Track Changes > Compare Documents
- Choose the original and revised documents
- Click OK
The differences will be highlighted, and you can review or accept changes.
🍏 Works seamlessly with all modern macOS versions.
How to Merge Document Versions
If you want to combine two versions into one:
- Go to Review > Compare > Combine…
- Select both versions
- Review changes in the combined file
- Accept or reject edits as needed
🧩 Helpful for editors managing contributions from multiple authors.
Tips for Using the Compare Tool Effectively
- Rename files clearly to avoid confusion (e.g., “Report_Draft1” vs. “Report_Final”)
- Save a backup before merging changes
- Use the Show Changes dropdown to filter by type or reviewer
- Combine the Compare tool with Track Changes for maximum clarity
💡 These tips streamline your editing process and reduce human error.
Alternative Ways to Compare Documents
If you’re not using Microsoft Word:
- Try Google Docs Version History to track edits
- Use diffcheck.com or Draftable for quick online comparisons
- Copy and paste text into a text comparison tool
🌐 These are useful for quick checks or when Word is unavailable.
FAQs: Compare Two Word Documents
Can I compare documents in Word Online?
No. The Compare feature is only available in the desktop version of Word.
Will the Compare tool show formatting differences?
Yes. You can choose to show or hide formatting changes in the comparison settings.
Is it possible to compare PDF and Word files?
Not directly. Convert the PDF to Word first, then use the Compare feature.
Can I undo a compare or merge?
Yes. Just close the compared file without saving changes.
Does comparing two documents overwrite the originals?
No. The comparison results open in a new file. Your original files remain unchanged.
Can I compare two Word documents side by side manually?
Yes. Open both files, go to View > View Side by Side to scroll together.
Conclusion: Quickly Compare Two Word Documents Like a Pro
With Microsoft Word’s Compare Two Word Documents feature, you can save time, avoid manual errors, and ensure every change is accounted for. Whether you’re reviewing edits or managing collaboration, Word makes the process seamless and accurate. ✅📘
Make your editing workflow smarter by mastering this essential feature.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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