The left - right arrow keys on my laptop don't function properly in msword (but work correctly in other programmes). Any insights?

Do they work properly in other Office programs?

Can you confirm that you are using Word 2003?

What happens if you start Word in Safe Mode?
· Hold Windows key + R.
· Copy and paste, or type the following command in the Open box, and then press Enter
· Note: There is a space between Winword and '/'.
· (The above may not work.)
· Or, try holding down the Ctrl key when starting Word.
· Then release the Ctrl key.
A window will pop up asking if you want to start Word in Safe Mode. Click on Yes and let Word open in Safe Mode. Use Ctrl+N and create a new document. Does this work?
Note that safe mode is not a way to operate Word on a daily basis. It is a diagnostic.