Annotate for Microsoft Word 2007 is a lightweight add-in for Microsoft Word. Installation will only take a few minutes, and you can easily uninstall the add-in at any time. We offer FREE and PRO versions of both the College Edition and Legal Writing Editions.

Note: Annotate for Microsoft Word 2007 works with Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7, but there are separate versions for each operating system.

If you are a new Annotate user, go to Step 1 to begin installation.

If you already have Annotate installed on your computer, and simply want to upgrade or reinstall, go to Step 3 (you can skip Step 1 and 2).

NOTE: You can only have the free OR PRO version installed - not both at the same time. 

If you prefer PDF or hardcopy instructions, you can use the following links:

• Annotate for Word 2007/2010 Install Instructions for Windows XP (PDF)
  
• Annotate for Word 2007/2010 Install Instructions for Windows Vista (PDF)
  
• Annotate for Word 2007/2010 Install Instructions for Windows 7 (PDF)
  

And once you've installed Annotate:

• Customizing your Annotate for Word Comment Library (PDF)
• Back up your Annotate Comment Library (PDF)

Step 1: Download and Install Microsoft SQL Server Compact Edition

Make sure you have exited Microsoft Word before beginning this process. If you already have a version of Annotate installed, uninstall it via Windows Add/Remove programs (Programs and Features in Windows 7). You must have Administrator rights on your computer to install Annotate for Word 2007.

Annotate, like many programs, requires some free Microsoft components to work. You may already have them installed, but it's best to be sure.This component makes it possible for Annotate for Word to create and manage a database of comments.

There are two different versions of SQL Server: 32 bit and 64 bit. Download the appropriate version for your computer, then double-click the download to install.

Most users of Windows XP need the 32 bit version. Some Windows Vista users will have 64 bit operating systems, and should download the 64 bit version. Many Windows 7 users will require the 64 bit version and should download and install the 32 bit version also (this is typical Microsoft weirdness...no explanation given).

Click here to read Microsoft's instructions on determining whether you've got a 64 bit or 32 bit system. Basically, if you don't know that you've got a 64 bit system, you're probably using a 32 bit system.

• SQL Server CE 32 bit (XP, most Vista users and Windows 7 64 bit)
• SQL Server CE 64 bit (many Windows 7 and those who know they're running a 64 bit system)
  • 64 bit users need to install BOTH the 32 bit and 64 bit versions of SQL Server CE. See the "Additional Information" section of the Microsoft installation webpage.

Step 2: Download and Install Microsoft .NET

• Windows 7 users can skip this step - the necessary software is built into your OS. However, you may need to give "Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5.1" permission to operate. Read the FAQ on this step.

The second Microsoft component Windows XP and Vista users need is .NET (it is included in Windows 7). The link below is to the latest and greatest version from Microsoft. You must have .NET installed on your computer in order to install Annotate.

Depending on your Internet connection speed, this download might take a few minutes. You may also need Administrator rights on your PC.

1. Download Microsoft NET 3.5 (required)
2. Follow the installation instructions. The installation can take a few minutes. Don't worry, you won't have to repeat this process if you upgrade your version of Annotate at a later date.

Step 3: Download and Install Annotate for Word 2007

Installing Annotate for Word 2007 is simple: download the free College Edition version from a link below, or use the PRO or Legal Writing version we sent to you after purchase.

Download the appropriate zip file, double-click it, follow the extraction instructions, and run the setup.exe program. The setup program will install a few more necessary components along with Annotate. Then open Microsoft Word 2007 and you'll have Annotate!

There are detailed, step by step instructions below to help you.

1. If you are upgrading to a new version of Annotate and have edited your Comment Library, make sure you back it up before proceeding. Find out how in this detailed FAQ. If you proceed without taking this step, you will lose all of the changes you've made to your Comment Library.
   
   
2. Download the appropriate Annotate for Word 2007 setup Program
   
   
   • If you have purchased a PRO Edition of Annotate, we'll email you a personalized PRO Edition installer within one business day of your purchase. Use this file to proceed.
     

   • Or, if you'd like to try the FREE version of the College Edition, download the appropriate version from:

   • Annotate for Word FREE Editions

3. Unzip to a directory on your computer (you can save it anywhere - just make sure you can find it! Save this file for easy installation on the other computers you use)

4. Double-click the setup.exe file

5. Click 'Ok' to install the various components and also Annotate for Word 2007

6. After the installation has completed, open Microsoft Word 2007

7. The first time you open Microsoft Word, you should be asked to approve a new program - Annotate. Click 'Okay' to approve the program.

8. The Annotate tab should be to the right of the  Home tab.

9. Start creating great feedback! 


10. Register to make sure you hear about updates, bug fixes etc.
    
    
11. Consider "Liking" us on Facebook and help spread the word about Annotate, Annotate PRO, and the free Writers' Toolkit.


12. Visit the Word 2007 Support page for more info on using Annotate.

Use the Contact Us button to report any issues with installation. Upgrading the add-in is quite easy once it is installed, so as we add and tweak features you'll be able to benefit.