Control Your Typing
Disable Autocorrect and Spellcheck in Windows 11

Taming the Typing Beast Why Disable Autocorrect and Spellcheck in Windows 11?

Unwanted autocorrect and spellcheck features in Windows 11 can be a productivity killer. They may introduce errors, especially when working with technical terms, multiple languages, or creative writing. Disabling these features gives you back manual control, reduces frustrating corrections, and helps you express yourself precisely.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to disable autocorrect and spellcheck features across various Windows 11 settings. You'll learn how to personalize your typing experience, reclaim control, and work efficiently.

Method 1 Disable Autocorrect and Spell Check Using Windows Settings

The easiest method involves the Windows Settings app. This approach offers a straightforward way to turn off autocorrect and spellcheck system-wide.

Step 1: Open the Windows Settings app. You can find it through the Start menu or by pressing the Windows key + I.

Step 2: In the Settings window, select 'Time & language' from the sidebar. Then, click on 'Typing' in the main pane.

Step 3: Under the Typing section, toggle off the 'Autocorrect misspelled words' and 'Highlight misspelled words' switches. This disables both automatic correction of typos and the red underline for spelling mistakes across most Windows 11 apps.

Step 4: Optionally, turn off 'Show text suggestions when typing on the physical keyboard' and 'Multilingual text suggestions if available' to further customize your typing experience and minimize distractions.

Method 2 Disable Autocorrect and Spell Check via Group Policy Editor

For Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions, the Group Policy Editor provides a more powerful and centralized way to manage system settings.

Step 1: Open the Group Policy Editor by pressing Windows key + R, typing 'gpedit.msc', and pressing Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to 'User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Control Panel > Regional and Language Options.'

Step 3: Double-click on 'Turn off autocorrect misspelled words.' In the window that appears, set the policy to 'Enabled' to disable system-wide autocorrect. Click 'Apply' and then 'OK.'

Step 4: To also disable the red squiggly underline for spelling errors, double-click on 'Turn off highlight misspelled words' and set this policy to 'Enabled' as well.

These policy changes apply to all users on the machine unless overridden by application-specific settings. Keep in mind the Group Policy Editor is only available in specific Windows 11 editions.

Method 3 Disable Autocorrect and Spell Check Using the Registry Editor

The Registry Editor provides advanced control, especially for versions without the Group Policy Editor. Always back up your registry before making changes.

Step 1: Press Windows key + R, type 'regedit', and press Enter. If prompted by User Account Control, click 'Yes'.

Step 2: Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders. If the Control Panel or International keys do not exist, right-click to create them as new keys in the appropriate location.

Step 3: In the International key, right-click in the right pane and select 'New > DWORD (32-bit) Value'. Name it 'EnableAutocorrect'. Double-click it and set its value data to '0' (zero) to disable autocorrect. To re-enable, set it to '1'.

Step 4: Repeat the process to create another DWORD named 'EnableSpellcheckUnderline'. Set its value to '0' to turn off the spellcheck underline, or '1' to enable it.

Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

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Disable autocorrect to ensure your message is delivered exactly as intended.

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Method 4 Disable Autocorrect and Spell Check in Specific Apps

Some apps have their own autocorrect and spellcheck settings. Here's how to manage them:

Notepad: Open Notepad, click the gear icon (Settings), and toggle off 'Spell check' and 'Autocorrect.'

Microsoft Edge: Open Edge, click the three-dot menu, go to 'Settings > Languages,' and turn off 'Enable grammar and spellcheck assistance' and related options.

Outlook and Microsoft 365 Apps: In Outlook, start a new message, go to 'Options > Editor Settings,' and turn off 'Enable auto correct' and 'Text predictions.' In Word or other Office apps, go to 'File > Options > Proofing' and uncheck 'Check spelling as you type' and 'Mark grammar as you type.'

Take Control Conclusion: Reclaim Your Typing Experience

Disabling autocorrect and spellcheck in Windows 11 puts you firmly in control of your typing experience. It allows you to tailor your writing environment to your specific needs and preferences, boosting productivity and reducing frustration.

Revisit these settings as your needs evolve. Experiment with different methods to find the perfect balance between assistance and autonomy. You now have all the tools you need to master your Windows 11 typing environment and express yourself with precision.