“Excel says the file can’t be opened.”
Word, Excel, and OneNote issues usually come from a save interruption, a sync conflict, or an add-in—not permanent damage. This guide covers everyday document support and where custom development starts.
The file name, where it is stored, the exact error or symptom, and whether it opens for anyone else.
The file size and location, when the slowdown or error started, and whether other workbooks in the same location behave normally.
The notebook name, which devices show the problem, and whether the notebook is personal or shared.
Before you assume the worst
Common questions
Not usually. Most reports resolve through version history, a temporary autosave copy, or reopening in safe mode—true unrecoverable loss is the exception, not the rule.
Custom macro and VBA development is treated as separate project work, not an everyday desk request. Fixing a macro that stopped working after an update is usually in scope.
Name both versions and roughly when each was saved. Version history can usually show what changed and let you choose or merge the right content.
Beyond a single file