WD98: INSERT (INS) Key Doesn't Switch Between Insert and Overtype Modes

ID: Q157228

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Word 98 Macintosh Edition

SYMPTOMS

When you press CONTROL+INS on the Macintosh keyboard, the typing mode does not switch from Insert to Overtype or vice versa.


CAUSE

This is a design change in Word 98 Macintosh Edition. By default, CONTROL+INS is not assigned to switch between Overtype and Insert modes.


WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, use the method appropriate for your situation.

Method 1: Assign the Overtype Command to a Shortcut Key

To activate the INSERT key, do the following:

  1. On the Tools menu, click Customize, and then click the Commands tab.


  2. Click the Keyboard button.


  3. In the Categories box, select All Commands.


  4. In the Commands list, select Overtype.


  5. Position the insertion point in the "Press New Shortcut Key" box, and then press the CONTROL+I keys on the keyboard (or other shortcut keys, as you want). You cannot assign CONTROL+INS (or any variation) to the Overtype command.

    NOTE: If the keys you press are already assigned to a different command, Word indicates the assignment with a message below the "Press new shortcut key" box, similar to the following message:


    6. Currently assigned to: <command>
  6. Click the Assign button.


  7. Click the Close button.


NOTE: OVR appears dimmed when Overtype mode is off.

Method 2: Select the Overtype Option

  1. On the Tools menu, click Preferences, and then click the Edit tab.


  2. Under Editing Options, clear or select the Overtype Mode check box.


Method 3: Use the Status Bar

With the status bar displayed, double-click OVR. This method sets the typing mode for the current session only.

Method 4: Use a Macro to Switch Between Overtype and Insert Modes

Create the following Visual Basic for Applications macro: 

   Sub ToggleOverType()
      Options.Overtype = Not Options.Overtype
   End Sub
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For additional information, please see the following articles in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
Q179020 WD98: How to Customize Toolbars

Additional query words: overwrite

Keywords : macword98
Version : MACINTOSH:98
Platform : MACINTOSH
Issue type : kbprb


Last Reviewed: October 21, 1999
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