How to Lock Parts of a Word Document

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When you're sharing information with others, you can lock parts of the Word document instead of the entire document. Unlocked areas can be edited freely. Locking parts of your document gives you freedom to choose how people use and modify the file. It's best to include a password when you lock the document to ensure the areas stay locked. You can lock all or selected users out of the specified areas.

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Step 1

Open the document you want to lock within Microsoft Word.

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Step 2

Select the "Review" tab and go to the "Protect" group. Select "Protect Document" and "Restrict Formatting and Editing." Go to the "Restrict Formatting and Editing" task pane now displayed on the right.

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Step 3

Go to "Editing restrictions" and tick "Allow only this type of editing in the document." Choose "No changes" from the list of options.

Step 4

Go to the "Exceptions optional" section and click "Everyone" or "More users" for the group allowed to edit the document.

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Step 5

Highlight the parts of your Word document you want to lock. To select different parts of your document, hold down the "Ctrl" key as you highlight the next area you want to lock.

Step 6

Go to "Start enforcement" and click the "Yes, Start Enforcing Protection" button. The "Start Enforcing Protection" dialog box appears. Click the "Password" option. Enter and reenter the password you want to use and click "OK."

Step 7

Click the "Save" button in the Quick Access Toolbar to save your settings.

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