How to Fix Canva Changes Color of Entire Sentence Instead of Single Word

Want to change the color of just one word in a sentence using Canva, but Canva keeps changing the entire text? You’re not alone—here are several methods to fix it, starting with the most effective solution.

✅ Method 1: Precisely Highlight the Word Only

Best and most common fix.

Steps:

1. Click into the Text Box: Double-click or tap once to activate the text.
2. Highlight the Single Word:
   • Desktop: Click and drag your mouse across just the word.
   • Mobile: Double-tap the word to highlight it.
3. Click the Text Color Tool: It’s the “A” with a color bar on the toolbar.
4. Pick Your Desired Color: The color should now apply only to the selected word.

Notes:

• If you accidentally highlight a space or extra character, Canva might still apply the color to the entire sentence.
• Zoom in if needed to select the word more precisely.

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🧼 Method 2: Update Canva

Older versions or browser issues can cause text selection bugs.

Steps:

1. If using the Desktop App: Go to Canva.com/download and download the latest version.
2. If using a Browser: Clear cache or switch to a supported browser like Chrome or Firefox.
3. If on Mobile: Go to your App Store or Play Store and update Canva.

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🧪 Method 3: Split Text Into Separate Boxes

If precise highlighting still fails, use multiple text boxes.

Steps:

1. Break Your Sentence into Parts: For example, “Make this word red” becomes:
   • Text Box 1: “Make this”
   • Text Box 2: “word”
   • Text Box 3: “red”
2. Format the Middle Text Box (Word): Apply color only to the middle box.

This method gives full control over styling but is best for static text (no dynamic changes).

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📱 Method 4: Use Shapes to Simulate Highlight

For free Canva users or problematic words.

Steps:

1. Insert a Shape: Go to Elements > Shapes and select a rectangle.
2. Place it Behind the Word: Resize it to fit behind the word.
3. Adjust Color and Transparency: Use this to create a “highlight” look.
4. Right-Click > Send to Back: So the text appears above the shape.

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⚙️ Method 5: Check Canva Pro Features

Some effects or font behaviors are Pro-only or may restrict styling flexibility.

Tips:

• If you’re on the Free version, try switching fonts. Some fonts may not allow per-word styling.
• Consider switching to a different font or style to see if it behaves correctly.
• If you often need more control, consider trying the Pro trial.

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🛠 Bonus Tips and Troubleshooting

• Undo and try again: If the style applied incorrectly, use Ctrl+Z or Cmd+Z.
• Avoid selecting extra spaces at the end of the word.
• Use keyboard shortcuts:
  • Ctrl+Shift+C (or Cmd+Shift+C) opens the color picker quickly.
• Try switching devices: Sometimes the issue is isolated to a device/browser combo.

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🔍 Summary Table

Method	When to Use	Pros	Cons
Highlight Word Only	Best for most users	Fast and easy	Needs precision
Update Canva	If feature isn’t working	May fix bugs	Time-consuming
Split Text Boxes	For total control	Exact styling	Tedious for long text
Shape Highlight	For Free users or design flair	Visual flexibility	Not true text color
Canva Pro	If font/style limitations	More options	Costs money