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Restrict formatting of a document

When you restrict the formatting of a document, you prevent users from applying styles that you don't explicitly make available. You also prevent users from applying formatting directly to text, such as bulleted or numbered lists or font characteristics. When formatting is restricted, the commands and keyboard shortcuts for applying formatting directly are unavailable.

1. On the Tools menu, click Protect Document.
2. In the Protect Document task pane, select the Limit formatting to a selection of styles check box.
3. Click Settings.
4. In the list of formatting styles in the Formatting Restrictions dialog box, select the check boxes for the styles you want to allow, and clear the check boxes for the styles you don't want to allow in the document.

   Tips

   • To limit formatting to the minimum number of recommended choices, click Recommended Minimum. You can restrict formatting to fewer choices, but doing so removes styles that Microsoft Word uses in certain features, such as tables of contents and bulleted or numbered lists.
   • If you want to retain certain AutoFormat features, such as changing "1/2" to "½," select the Allow AutoFormat to override formatting restrictions check box.
5. Click Yes, Start Enforcing Protection.
6. Type a password in the Enter new password (optional) box, and then confirm the password.