You might be one of the people wondering why OpenOffice nowadays gives you a read-only document if you open a file from the internet. Maybe it even prevents you from editing it. Here's a solution to that, accompanied by an explanation.
The button to edit a read-only document in OpenOffice
To be able to edit a document that was opened read-only, click the button similar to the one you see in the image. OpenOffice may complain a little about the object not being accessible and ask if you want to edit a copy of the document; just click Ok and Yes. Now you should be able to change the document to your heart's content.
The reason why OpenOffice opens your document this way is that files opened from the web are stored in a temporary location, which may be wiped any moment. If OpenOffice would just let you edit the document, you would have to save the document in a meaningful place by using File -> Save as. Experience learns that users tend to forget this. Therefore, the document is opened read-only, forcing you to edit and save the file explicitly. If you know the frustration of losing hours of hard work, you also know why a feature like this is useful.
Did this post save your day? Do you know more tricks with read-only documents? Leave a comment! And if you like this blog, why not subscribe?
Does not help; file from the Internet or my own is "read only" and cannot be modified.