When I edit a book or manuscript for a client, I always use Word edit tracker so that my client can instantly see every change that has been made.

Once in a while a client will ask me how to use edit tracker in Word. Here’s my easy guide:

1. On your Word menu bar at the very top of your screen, go to “View.”

2. On the dropdown menu, choose “Toolbars.”

3. Click on “Reviewing.”

4. You should now see the reviewing toolbar. On the far left, choose “Final Showing Markup.”

5. To the right is a button marked “Show.” Make sure all selections are checked.

6. You should now be able to see every edit and comment.

7. You can “Accept All Changes in Document” with the little button (actually, the arrow next to it) that has the green check mark.

8. You can delete all comments with the button that has the red X.

Of course, upon request I happily send my clients a “clean” copy with all the edits accepted.

– Thomas Hauck, freelance book editor, provides comprehensive literary services for both established and first-time authors.