How to Copy a Word Document | 5 Simple Methods

Duplicating a Word document is one of the simplest yet most useful skills in document management. Whether you're backing up important files, creating templates, or sending different versions to colleagues or clients, knowing how to make a copy of your Word document is essential.

Luckily, you can do this in several quick ways, whether you're using Windows, MacOS, or Microsoft Word itself. Let’s explore the five most effective methods.

5 Easy Ways to Duplicate a Word Document

1. Copy & Paste in File Explorer (Windows)

• Open File Explorer and locate your Word document.

• Right-click the file and select Copy.

• Navigate to the folder where you want the duplicate.

• Right-click in the destination folder and choose Paste.

• A copy of the file will appear with a similar name (e.g., "Document - Copy").

Pro Tip: Use keyboard shortcuts:

• Press Ctrl + C to copy

• Press Ctrl + V to paste

2. Duplicate Using Finder (MacOS)

• Locate the Word file in Finder.

• Right-click and select Copy.

• Go to your desired location.

• Right-click in the folder and choose Paste Item.

This method is quick and works for all types of Word files.

3. Use "Save As" in Microsoft Word

• Open your document in Microsoft Word.

• Click on File > Save As.

• Choose your destination folder.

• Rename the document (or save it with the same name in a different location).

• Click Save.

Now you’ve created a separate file without changing the original.

4. Open as a Copy in Word

• Launch Microsoft Word.

• Click File > Open.

• Find the document you want to copy.

• Click the arrow beside the Open button and select Open as Copy.

Word will automatically generate a duplicate with a name like "Copy of DocumentName.docx."

5. Create a New Copy from the File Shortcut

• Right-click your original Word file.

• Choose Open with > Microsoft Word or select New.

• When the document opens, click Enable Editing if needed.

• Save the file with a new name using File > Save As.

Why Duplicating Word Documents Matters

Making copies helps with:

• Creating backups of important files

• Collaborating with others on separate versions

• Preserving the integrity of originals

• Reusing the same format or structure as a template

Bonus: Share and Track Your Word Docs with Plox

Need to send documents securely or monitor who opens them? Use Plox to:

• Create password-protected share links

• Track when documents are viewed and for how long

• Keep your files versioned and organized

Perfect for contracts, resumes, NDAs, or client-ready files.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to copy a Word document using five simple methods, you can work more efficiently and confidently. Whether you're on Windows or MacOS, duplicating your files ensures you’re always prepared and protected.