iPad Pro Microsoft Word - Deleting Prior Version of Document When Opening

Hello Hawkeyed,

If changes you've made to documents aren't being saved as expected, then we'll want to start with ensuring the AutoSave feature is enabled within Word. This feature automatically save changes you've made without needing to complete additional steps on your end.

1. "Tap the File icon.
2. Move the Auto Save slider to On.
3. When Auto Save is turned off, you'll see the Save button on the File menu."

Find more details about that here: Save Office files automatically

If you find that a specific feature within an app isn't functioning as you'd expect, we'd recommend confirming that it's updated to the latest version available from the developer. Updates for third-party apps often include fixes for features that aren't working as expected. Before checking in the App Store, please update your iPad to the latest OS version available.

"Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch wirelessly

1. Back up your device using iCloud or your computer.
2. Plug your device into power and connect to the internet with Wi-Fi.
3. Go to Settings > General, then tap Software Update.
4. If you see two software update options available, choose the one that you want to install.
5. Tap Install Now. If you see Download and Install instead, tap it to download the update, enter your passcode, then tap Install Now. If you don't know your passcode, learn what to do.

You might see that your device is up to date and that there's an upgrade available. For example, even if your device is up to date with the latest version of iOS 14, there might be an option to upgrade to iOS 15. You might want to upgrade iOS when you pair an accessory with iPhone."

Check out these details in Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch 

From there, manually update the app in the App Store.

"How to manually update apps on your iPhone or iPad

1. Open the App Store.
2. Tap your profile icon at the top of the screen.
3. Scroll to see pending updates and release notes. Tap Update next to an app to update only that app, or tap Update All."

You can find these steps in How to manually update apps on your Apple device

If you find the app is still not saving the changes you've made, we'd recommend contacting the developer directly: Microsoft Office Help

Take care!