Applies ToExcel for Microsoft 365 Word for Microsoft 365 Outlook for Microsoft 365 PowerPoint for Microsoft 365 Access for Microsoft 365 Excel 2024 Word 2024 Outlook 2024 PowerPoint 2024 Access 2024 Excel 2021 Word 2021 Outlook 2021 PowerPoint 2021 Access 2021 Excel 2019 Word 2019 Outlook 2019 PowerPoint 2019 Access 2019 Excel 2016 Word 2016 Outlook 2016 PowerPoint 2016 Access 2016

The Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) is a customizable toolbar containing commands that are independent of the ribbon tab that is currently displayed. It can be located in one of two places, as illustrated by the red outlines in the images below:

Below the ribbon (default location):

Quick Access Toolbar below the ribbon

Above the ribbon:

Quick Access Toolbar above the ribbon

To move the Quick Access Toolbar

If you don't want the QAT in its current location, you can move it to the other location:

  1. Select  Customize Quick Access Toolbar at the right end of the toolbar. 

  2. Near the bottom of the menu, select Show Below the Ribbon or Show above the ribbon.

If you find that the default location above the ribbon is too far from your work area, you may want to move it closer to your work area. However, the location below the ribbon can encroach on the work area. Keeping the Quick Access Toolbar in its default location helps to maximize your workspace. 

To show or hide the Quick Access Toolbar

  1. Click Ribbon Display Options, located in the lower-right below the ribbon.Ribbon Display Option button

  2. In the list, choose either Show Quick Access Toolbar or Hide Quick Access Toolbar as appropriate.

 See Also

Add commands to the Quick Access Toolbar 

Customize the Quick Access Toolbar

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.