A drop-down arrow in Word can come from several different features, including a content control, form field, or interface command. If the arrow is part of a drop-down list inside the document, remove the control only if you no longer need its form behavior.
Remove a drop-down content control
- Select the drop-down control in the document.
- Open the Developer tab.
- Choose Properties if you need to inspect the control first.
- Use the control’s removal option or right-click the control and choose Remove Content Control when available.
Removing the content control can leave its displayed text behind while removing the interactive drop-down behavior.
If you do not see the Developer tab
Open Word’s ribbon customization settings and enable Developer. You can then select and manage content controls more easily.
If the arrow is not inside the document
An arrow in the ribbon, Quick Access Toolbar, navigation area, or another part of Word’s interface is not a document drop-down control. Removing a content control will not affect those interface elements.
Before deleting a form control from a shared template, save a copy of the document. The drop-down may be required for data entry, document automation, or a workflow used by other people.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.