in the mixed text (English + Arabic) in one paragraph, the cursor is supposed to change directly when it enters and English text and the same for Arabic. Unfortunately it doesn't.



how to resolve it?

If you rely on "Detect language automatically," note that it takes a while to kick in. In particular, as you have seen, if you add text in different languages in one and the same paragraph, Word usually doesn't recognize the language correctly.

What you can do is create a character style with the language that you want and apply it to the relevant text ranges.

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Stefan Blom
Microsoft Word MVP

Indeed, I'm using word 2003, the option "detect language automatically" isn't available in the word options!!!

The option is in the Language dialog box (Tools | Language | Set Proofing Language). It's selected by default, but, as I wrote, you shouldn't depend on that option. Clear it and use a character style instead; apply it manually to text as required.

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Stefan Blom
Microsoft Word MVP

Thanks for your help. it seems I have something wrong with office installation itself.
Thanks again

You could try repairing Office, of course, but why do you think there is a problem with the installation?

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Stefan Blom
Microsoft Word MVP