Word undo and redo are two of the most frequently used commands in Microsoft Word, helping users correct mistakes or recover accidentally removed text with just a simple keyboard shortcut. Whether you’re working on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, mastering these functions allows you to write and edit more confidently and efficiently. In this guide, we explain how to perform undo and redo in Word using both shortcuts and menu commands on all major platforms.
🔄 What Do Undo and Redo Mean in Word?
- Undo (↶) reverses your last action. It can fix mistakes such as deleting text, applying the wrong formatting, or moving content unintentionally.
- Redo (↷) reinstates an action that you’ve just undone. It’s useful when you change your mind or accidentally press undo one time too many.
These actions support multiple levels, allowing you to step back or forward through your editing history.
💻 Undo and Redo Shortcuts on Windows
| Action | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Undo | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo | Ctrl + Y (or Ctrl + Shift + Z) |
How to use:
- Press
Ctrl + Zto undo the last change. - Press
Ctrl + Yto redo it.
✅ Works in all versions of Microsoft Word on Windows.
🍏 Undo and Redo Shortcuts on macOS
| Action | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Undo | Command + Z |
| Redo | Command + Y or Command + Shift + Z |
How to use:
- Use
Cmd + Zto quickly undo multiple edits. - Use
Cmd + Shift + Zto redo, especially in later versions of Word for Mac.
💡 Tip: If one redo shortcut doesn’t work, try the alternative. It can vary based on your macOS version and app settings.
🐧 Undo and Redo Shortcuts on Ubuntu/Linux (LibreOffice or Word Online)
In LibreOffice Writer (common Word alternative on Linux):
| Action | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Undo | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo | Ctrl + Y |
In Word Online (through browser on Ubuntu):
| Action | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Undo | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo | Ctrl + Y |
✅ These shortcuts behave the same as on Windows.
🧠 When Should You Use Undo and Redo?
- After mistakenly deleting content
- When you accidentally paste or move text
- To reverse formatting or style changes
- When testing layout or heading changes
- To quickly compare edits during writing or proofreading
These commands are essential in all editing tasks—whether you’re writing a report, drafting an email, or editing a novel.
🛠️ Undo and Redo from the Word Interface
Besides keyboard shortcuts, you can also access these functions via:
- The Quick Access Toolbar (top-left in Word window)
- The Home tab, where the Undo and Redo icons are displayed
- The Edit menu (on macOS)
💡 You can click the small drop-down arrow next to the undo icon to undo multiple actions at once.
📝 Customize Undo and Redo Settings
While you can’t directly set the number of undo levels in Word, Windows registry or system preferences might offer advanced tweaks. However, in normal use, Word allows dozens of undo steps.
To make undo and redo even faster:
- Add them to your custom ribbon or quick access bar
- Use a mouse with programmable buttons
- Use third-party tools like AutoHotKey for custom key mapping (Windows)
❓ FAQ – Word Undo and Redo
Can I undo after saving and closing Word?
No, the undo history resets once the document is closed.
What’s the difference between Ctrl + Y and Ctrl + Shift + Z?
Both perform redo, but support may vary by version and platform.
Is there a limit to how many actions I can undo?
Yes, but the limit is high (typically 100+ actions). This may vary depending on memory usage.
Can I undo a format change but not text deletion?
No, undo always steps backward in order. However, you can redo after undoing too far.
Does Word auto-save undo history?
Undo history is session-based only. It disappears after you close the document.
✅ Conclusion
Understanding how to undo and redo in Word is a basic yet powerful skill that every user should master. With simple keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + Z or Cmd + Z, you can fix mistakes in seconds. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, these commands help keep your workflow smooth, fast, and stress-free. Once you commit them to memory, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without them.
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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