Unanchoring Objects: How to Remove Object Anchor in Word 2016

Microsoft Word 2016 offers a range of features for document formatting, including the ability to insert and anchor objects such as images and shapes. However, there are instances where you may need to remove the object anchor. This guide will walk you through the steps to seamlessly unanchor objects in Word 2016.

1. Open Your Word Document:

Begin by opening the Word document containing the object with an anchor that you want to remove. Navigate to the specific page or location where the object is anchored.

2. Select the Object:

Click on the object that you wish to unanchor. This can be an image, shape, or any other element that has an anchor attached to it. Once selected, you should see handles or a bounding box around the object.

3. Go to the Layout Options:

With the object selected, a new tab labeled "Format" or "Picture Format" should appear in the Word ribbon. Click on this tab to reveal additional options. Look for an option related to "Layout" or "Wrap Text."

4. Access the Wrap Text Options:

Within the Layout or Wrap Text options, there should be a submenu or dialog box launcher (a small, angled arrow). Click on this launcher to open a window with advanced layout options for the selected object.

5. Locate the Object Position:

In the Wrap Text or Layout Options window, find the section related to object positioning. There may be a checkbox or dropdown menu that allows you to specify the object's position on the page.

6. Disable Object Anchoring:

Look for an option that mentions anchoring, and disable or set it to "In Line with Text" or a similar option that removes the object's attachment to a specific anchor point.

7. Confirm Changes:

After making the necessary adjustments, click "OK" or "Apply" to confirm the changes. This action should remove the object anchor and allow you to freely move the object within the document.

8. Test Object Mobility:

To ensure that the object is no longer anchored, try moving it around the document. If successful, the object is no longer restricted by a specific anchor point.

9. Save Your Document:

Once you've completed the process of removing the object anchor, be sure to save your Word document to preserve the changes.

10. Check for Linked Objects:

In some cases, objects may be linked to other files or sources. If your object still behaves unexpectedly, check for any linked files and update or unlink them as needed.

In conclusion, unanchoring objects in Word 2016 is a straightforward process that involves accessing the Layout or Wrap Text options and adjusting the object's positioning settings. By following these steps, you can efficiently manage the placement of objects in your Word documents.