Fix: Recent Documents Not Showing in Word
Quick Answer
Go to File > Options > Advanced > Display > set 'Show this number of Recent Documents' to 25 or higher. If documents were cleared, they can't be restored but new documents will appear going forward.
Recent Documents Not Showing in Word
How to restore the recent documents list when it’s empty or not updating.
Quick Solution
Go to File > Options > Advanced > Display > set ‘Show this number of Recent Documents’ to 25 or higher. If documents were cleared, they can’t be restored but new documents will appear going forward.
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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