MS Word delete text

[Phil_B]

MS Office 2003 XP SP2

Something strange has happened to MS Word over the last day or two. Usually when I'm typing, and I need to correct a string of text I highlight it and use the backspace key to delete in one go (as with any other application).

Today, literally, this no longer deletes the text. Also, if I highlight a string of text, and type, it no longer types 'over' that string - it just inserts it at the beginning.

It sounds trivial, but but when using Word a lot this is a real pain, as it is something that has become instinctive. Sure I can use the Delete key, but you get into a habit, and the Backspace key is so big, and, right where it should be!

Any help on this infuriating niggle greatly appreciated as ever . P.

[Murray S.]

Howdy:

Not sure if you tried this but, tap your "insert" key once and see what happens.

Murray

[Phil_B]

Yes, tried that, thanks, but to no avail...

[Murray S.]

The only other suggestion I can come up with (never seen what is happening before) is to dump the normal.dot file and restart Word and see if that helps or,
use your Office cd and run a repair.

Murray

[Miz]

In Word, look in Tools>Options>Edit and make sure "Typing replaces selection" is checked. As far as Word's concerned, any pressed key is "typing" and that includes the Backspace key.

[Phil_B]

Sorry about the late reply, but that's exactly it! Can't be sure how it got unchecked, must have been a misplaced click...

Thanks for sorting it, that was beginning to be a real pain