How can I get my curser to only highlight what I want?

[chalkdust]

I frequently have problems highlighting for corrections or copying. Instead
of the letter or word that I'd like highlighted, the whole word or prior
sentence/page/paragraph (it varies) will highlight even if I am just putting
my curser in one spot and click without dragging over text.

I usually can't copy the highlighted section. If I type, the whole thing
disappears. If I want to insert something or continue on at the end of a
good page with no highlights, everything prior to insertion/new typing might
disappear.

If I'm lucky and can copy everything, I have to open a new document to go on
and this doesn't always work, either.

I don't notice anything at the bottom of the screen that indicates an
editing icon that would explain this problem.

Any help out there?

 

[garfield-n-odie [MVP]]

In Word 2003 or earlier, click on Tools | Options | Edit tab | uncheck
the "When selecting, automatically select entire word" box | OK. If you
are working on a laptop computer, then some of the issues you mention
might be fixed by reducing the sensitivity of your touchpad.

 

[CyberTaz]

.... Also, the F8 key toggles the Extend Selection feature - although EXT
should show in black letters on the Status Bar if it's activated.

Regards |:>)
Bob Jones
[MVP] Office:Mac