How to Make Word Documents Fillable but Not Editable

You can create forms using Microsoft Word that can be completed electronically and returned to you -- especially helpful if you have an assignment that requires peer surveys or group collaboration. When you also password-protect the document, you can limit or restrict the user's editing capabilities so they can only fill out the form and enter new content where you permit.

Click the "File" tab and select "Options," then click "Customize Ribbon." Select the "Developer" check box in the list under Main Tabs and then click "OK." From there, use an existing form template or create a new form on a blank document (see "Create a Fillable Form" in Resources). You can control the content entered with tools like check boxes, text boxes, date selectors and drop-down lists. For more complex formatting, you can even use formulas and links as you would when designing a database.

When your form has been designed and you are happy with the results, you can add protection so that editing is restricted. Click "Home," and then choose "Select" and "Select All." Alternatively, you can press "Ctrl-A" to select all content. Click "Developer," and then select "Restrict Editing."