The quickest way to save in Word is to press F12 for Save As the first time, then Ctrl + S every time after that. Word also saves from the File menu and, with AutoSave, while you type. If Word closes before you save, see how to recover an unsaved Word document.
In this guide, you’ll learn four ways to save in Word, how to check a save worked and why AutoSave is worth switching on. The steps are for Microsoft 365, Word 2021 and Word 2019 for Windows.
Save vs Save As in Word
- Save As chooses a name and a folder. Use it the first time, or to make a separate copy such as Version 2.
- Save updates the file you already named. Use it as you work.
Watch the Video Tutorial
If you prefer to see this in action, the full video walkthrough is below, showing each method step by step.
Method 1: Save in Word With F12
- Press F12. The Save As window opens. On laptops, you may need Fn + F12.
- Choose a folder, such as Desktop, Downloads or Documents.
- Type a name next to File name, for example Version 1.
- Select Save.
👉 The file name appears at the top of Word with Saved to this PC.
Method 2: Save in Word From the File Menu
Use this if F12 does not work:
- Select File, then Save As.
- Select Browse. The Save As window opens.
- Choose a folder and type a name next to File name.
- Check Save as type says Word Document (*.docx), then select Save.
👉 The title bar shows the new name. To save a copy as a PDF instead, choose PDF in Save as type, or see how to save a Word document as a PDF.
Method 3: Save in Word With Ctrl + S
Once the file has a name, save every change in a second:
- Make your changes, then press Ctrl + S.
👉 The top of Word briefly shows Saving, then Saved to this PC. No menus. No clicks. You can also select File > Save or the Save (disk) icon at the top left.
Method 4: Turn On AutoSave
AutoSave saves while you type, so a crash does not cost you work.
- Switch on AutoSave at the top left of Word.
- Choose your OneDrive account when asked, then name the file.
👉 Word now saves every few seconds. OneDrive is included with a Microsoft 365 subscription. Microsoft explains more in save a document.
Quick Tips
Save Early
Name the file with F12 in the first minute, then press Ctrl + S often.
Keep Versions
Use Save As with Version 1, Version 2 and so on before big edits.
Make a Copy
To duplicate a finished file, see how to copy a Word document.
Pick the Format
Keep .docx for editing. Read DOC vs DOCX before choosing an older format.
FAQs
How do I save in Word?
Press F12, choose a folder, type a file name and select Save. After that, press Ctrl + S to save each change.
What is the shortcut to save in Word?
Ctrl + S saves the current document. F12 opens Save As so you can choose a new name or folder.
What is the difference between Save and Save As?
Save updates the existing file. Save As lets you choose a new name, folder or file type, which creates a separate copy.
Why does F12 not open Save As?
On many laptops the function keys control volume or brightness. Press Fn + F12, or use File > Save As.
How do I turn on AutoSave in Word?
Switch on AutoSave at the top left of Word and save the file to OneDrive. Word then saves your changes automatically.
Where does Word save my documents?
Word saves to the folder you choose in Save As. Check the location at the top of the window, or open File > Info to see the file path.
How do I know my Word document is saved?
The top of Word shows the file name and Saved to this PC, or Saved to OneDrive when AutoSave is on.
Conclusion
To save in Word, press F12 or use File > Save As the first time, press Ctrl + S as you work and switch on AutoSave so a crash never costs you work.
Save your favourite shortcuts too with the free Microsoft Word keyboard shortcuts cheat sheet.
Related Tutorials
- How to Recover an Unsaved Word Document
- How to Save a Word Document as a PDF
- How to Recover a Corrupted Document in Word
Word Tutorials
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For Microsoft support documentation, visit the official Microsoft guidance.
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