How do I create a new document in powerpoint and word on the ipad?

Kaitlyn Tran 0 Reputation points
2026-01-31T17:40:20.9533333+00:00

I have tried everything to create a document. I have checked my account status, restarted my device, re-installed the program, made sure I didn't need any updates on my device but I still can't get a new document to open up. Strangely enough, I can edit and open up existing documents, but it will not allow me to create one on my ipad. When I tap the + to add document, it doesn't do anything, and when I hover over the icon and go to options -> create new document, it will just take me to a black screen.

Microsoft 365 and Office | PowerPoint | For home | iOS
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  1. Alex_T 6,395 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-01-31T22:45:03.7966667+00:00

    Hello Kaitlyn Tran,

    Thank you for reaching out in Microsoft Q&A forum

    I understand how frustrating this is, especially since you can open and edit existing files but creating a new one on your iPad doesn’t respond or shows a black screen.

    Based on similar cases, please try these steps in order:

    1. Force closes the app, then fully restart the iPad (not just sleep/wake), and try creating a new file again.
    2. Sign out of Word/PowerPoint, restart the iPad, then sign back in and test the + New option.
    3. Go to iPad Settings > Word (or PowerPoint) and make sure Files / iCloud Drive access is allowed, then reopen the app.
    4. Open the Files app first, confirm iCloud Drive loads correctly, then return to Word/PowerPoint and try Blank document.
    5. If it still happens, Reset All Settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings). This does not delete data but refreshes system settings that affect app creation screens.

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