Track Changes is a function in Microsoft Word that allows for editing, proofreading, and correcting with ease. In the typewriter days, when making changes and corrections, a writer had to start with a new sheet of paper, decipher an editor’s handwriting, and interpret a proofreader’s marks. Now changes can be made with the click of a button.

To start using Track Changes, the first step is to turn the function on. To do this, go to the Review Tab, and click on the Track Changes button.

When the button turns a light orange color, it is turned on.

In order to see the changes being made, make sure that Word is set for Show Final Markup.

When Track Changes is turned on, there will be two ways to tell if a change or correction has been made. First, the additional type with be a different color, usually red or blue.

There is also a thin line on the left hand side of the page. This is convenient for noticing the smaller changes such as adding or deleting a comma.

To accept the changes one by one, there are two options. You can right click on it, and a menu will appear.

Changes can be accepted one at a time, or all at once.

They can also be rejected.

Once changes are accepted, they will go back to looking like standard type and format.

Once the changes have examined and are accepted, turn off Track Changes so the icon is no longer orange by clicking on it. This way work can be continued as normal.