How to save a Word Document as .doc

Question

How to save a Word Document as .doc

Theresa Moore 0

Since Windows 11, when I create a Word document, it tries to save it as a pdf or rich text format or plain text. Then I lose the formatting. How can I save it like I did in Windows 10?

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Answer 1

Stefan Blom 352.7K MVP Volunteer Moderator

In Word for Windows, click File > Options > Save. What has been selected for Save files in this format? This setting controls the default file format.

On the other hand, if you choose to save an existing document under a new name, using the Save As dialog box (press F12 or Fn+F12), Word suggests the current file format (which must then be changed manually).

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Theresa Moore 0 Reputation points

2026-09-17T19:34:35.48+00:00

The only options when I select Save As are: PDF, XPS Document, Single File Web Page, Web Page, Web Page Filtered, Rich Text Format and Plain Text. I just want to save as a .docx.
Stefan Blom 352.7K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator

2026-09-17T19:38:01.7833333+00:00

Thanks for the follow-up. Which version of Office do you have? Which product name?
Theresa Moore 0 Reputation points

2026-09-17T19:48:31.04+00:00

Office 2021 Professional Plus
Theresa Moore 0 Reputation points

2026-09-17T19:51:14.43+00:00

I have Office 2021 Professional Plus
Theresa Moore 0 Reputation points

2026-09-17T20:18:17.04+00:00

I fixed it!
Stefan Blom 352.7K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator

2026-09-18T07:35:44.2433333+00:00

That is good news. Would you mind telling us what you did to fix the problem?