Fix: Word Stuck on Splash/Startup Screen

Fixing a Stuck Word Startup

When Word shows its splash screen but never finishes loading, something is blocking the startup process.

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Wait and Monitor

1. Give Word 2-3 minutes — it may be updating or connecting to services
2. Open Task Manager and check if Word’s CPU is active
3. If CPU is at 0% for over a minute, Word is truly stuck

Step 2: Force Close and Restart

1. In Task Manager, select Word and click End Task
2. Wait 10 seconds for all processes to close
3. Try opening Word again

Step 3: Start in Safe Mode

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type winword /safe and press Enter
3. If Word opens in Safe Mode, an add-in is blocking startup

Step 4: Disconnect from Network

If Word is trying to reach a network resource:

1. Temporarily disconnect from WiFi or unplug Ethernet
2. Try opening Word
3. If it opens, the issue is a network-dependent add-in or template

Step 5: Clear Office Credentials

1. Open Control Panel > Credential Manager
2. Under Windows Credentials, remove any entries for MicrosoftOffice
3. Restart Word and sign in again when prompted

Nuclear Option

If nothing works, repair Office via Settings > Apps > Microsoft Office > Modify > Online Repair.