Fix: Spell Check Running Very Slowly in Word

Why Spell Check Slows Down

Real-time spell checking is resource-intensive, especially in large documents or when multiple proofing languages are active.

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Disable Real-Time Spell Check

1. Go to File > Options > Proofing
2. Uncheck Check spelling as you type
3. Uncheck Mark grammar errors as you type
4. Use F7 to run manual spell check when you’re ready

Step 2: Remove Extra Proofing Languages

1. Go to File > Options > Language
2. Under Office authoring languages and proofing, remove languages you don’t use
3. Restart Word

Step 3: Exclude Sections from Spell Check

For documents with code, foreign text, or technical terms:

1. Select the section to exclude
2. Go to Review > Language > Set Proofing Language
3. Check Do not check spelling or grammar

Step 4: Reset Custom Dictionary

A large custom dictionary can slow spell check:

1. Go to File > Options > Proofing > Custom Dictionaries
2. Select the default dictionary and click Edit Word List
3. Remove unnecessary entries, or click Delete all

Quick Fix

If you need speed right now, switch to Draft view (View > Draft) and disable proofing marks. This gives Word less to render and process simultaneously.