Start with the right checks.
Word may offer a recovery copy after an unexpected closure. What is available depends on whether recovery information was saved.
What to do next.
Reopen Word and look for the Document Recovery pane.
Open likely copies and compare their dates and contents. Do not assume the most recent file name contains all of your work.
Save a recovered document with a clear new name before editing it.
If no recovery copy appears, check the original save location and any available OneDrive or SharePoint version history. On a Mac, Microsoft’s guide also identifies the AutoRecovery folder.
Check the result.
Reopen the saved copy from its actual folder and check the last section you worked on.
Stop and get help if…
The file is damaged, the only copy is missing, or recovery options are unclear. Preserve the computer’s current state and get advice before making more changes.