Problem with Microsoft Word

Something changed on the main page when I open Word. In the past when I opened Word the most recent documents were listed on the right side of the page. Now nothing is there but there is just a thin vertical dividing line about two thirds of the way from the left hand side. inside the left portion of this dividing line is what looks like a miniature perpendicular symbol.

Formerly, if I wanted to open any saved document I would double click on the yellow open document icon and a list of all my saved documents would appear. If I do that now, no list appears but a new large screen appears with the word open in the top left corner. I cannot write anything on this screen.

I cannot figure out how to "get back" to the normal situation where recently opened documents are listed on the right side of the page and more importantly, I am able to open previously saved documents.

Thanks in advance for your help!!!

 

I looked under the properties menu of MS Word listing under programs and it said MS Word 2002 so I'm guessing that's the version. I was not able to find the version of Windows but I use an Inspiron 1501 Dell computer I purchased around 5-6 years ago if that's any help.

 

Hi my friend , go to :wave

Start
choose My Computer from the right list
push the right click selecting Properties - General
There is your computer windows version

 

It's Windows Vista Home Basic. Thanks for you help thus far.

 

Microsoft has a Fix-It option for resetting Word to the default settings

http://go.microsoft.com/?linkid=9763243

I would proceed with your own caution if you want to try this step in fixing your Word 2002 program.

Fix-It option came from http://support.microsoft.com/kb/822005/en-us?spid=3253&sid=228

 

Somehow this problem resolved itself. I tried everything again this morning and for reasons I have not the slightest idea about, everything was back to normal.

Thanks to everyone for your help. I am always astounded at the generosity of the experts on this site. You are an invaluable resource for retirees like myself who do not have access to many "live" experts to ask for help.

 

Unfortunately the problem mysteriously returned a few days just as mysteriously as it "fixed itself".

Can anyone offer any suggestions about fixing it?

Thanks

 

I am thinking about uninstalling Microsoft Office completely , reinstall this anyway , maybe this works as solution :wave