Fix: Read Aloud Feature Not Working in Word
Quick Answer
Go to Review > Read Aloud. If no sound, check your system audio settings and output device. Read Aloud requires the Windows text-to-speech engine — make sure at least one voice is installed in Windows Settings > Time & Language > Speech.
Read Aloud Feature Not Working in Word
How to fix the Read Aloud feature when it doesn’t start, produces no sound, or skips text.
Quick Solution
Go to Review > Read Aloud. If no sound, check your system audio settings and output device. Read Aloud requires the Windows text-to-speech engine — make sure at least one voice is installed in Windows Settings > Time & Language > Speech.
Detailed Steps
- Identify the problem — Note exactly when the issue occurs and any error messages
- Try the quick fix — Apply the solution described above
- Start Word in Safe Mode — If the issue persists, press Windows + R, type
winword /safe, and test - Check for updates — Go to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now
- Repair Office — If nothing else works, go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft Office > Modify > Online Repair
When to Contact Support
If the issue persists after trying all steps, contact Microsoft Support or visit answers.microsoft.com. Include your Word version (File > Account > About Word) and a description of the steps you’ve already tried.
Prevent This Issue
- Keep Microsoft Office updated with the latest patches
- Regularly back up important documents
- Avoid installing untrusted add-ins
- Use .docx format for all documents (not .doc)
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