Spell-check problems fixed with PRAM reset

From MacFixIt


Spell-check problems fixed with PRAM reset

The system-wide spell check in OS X has been a welcome addition to the Mac platform, and many developers have implemented it in their programs. However, in some instances this feature may suddenly stop working.

1. Reset the computer's PRAM.

For some reason, the PRAM seems to influence the functionality of the spell checker, and several people with this problem (posting in this Apple Discussion thread) have found that resetting the computer's PRAM has fixed it. To reset the PRAM, reboot the computer and immediately hold the options-command-P-R keys. Allow the computer to reset and make the boot chimes several times, then release the keys and let it boot normally.

Other potential fixes:

1. Boot into Safe Mode.

This problem may also be addressed by booting into Safe Mode (hold shift at bootup) and then running Disk Utility to repair drive permissions. Doing this will run various system maintenance scripts that may fix the problems.

2. Run third-party maintenance utilities.

The popular program "OnyX" will clear system cache files, other temporary files, and perform a variety of system maintenance tasks. These have the potential to clear nonfunctional system features, and as such, we recommend you try this before attempting other more invasive workarounds such as archiving and installing the system.