# Outlook rule diagnosis checklist

Use the fictional cases in [rule-triage.csv](rule-triage.csv). Do not enter real mailbox addresses or confidential subjects into a public screenshot.

1. Identify your version. **File** at the top indicates classic Outlook for Windows; otherwise you may be in new Outlook or Outlook on the web.
2. In new Outlook or web, open **Settings > Mail > Rules**. In classic Outlook for Windows, open **File > Manage Rules & Alerts**.
3. Write down the exact rule name and whether it is enabled.
4. Compare its conditions to a message that you are authorized to use for testing. A mismatch is not a rule-engine failure.
5. Read the order of rules above it. Look for **Stop processing more rules** on a preceding rule that also matches the message.
6. If new Outlook says a migrated rule cannot be edited or viewed, check whether the action existed only in classic Outlook. Recreate it only with an action supported in new Outlook or use the appropriate client.
7. Save only an intended change. Test with a new, fictional incoming message if you have authority to send and receive it. Observe the destination folder or action. Until that test, mark the result “configured, routing unverified.”

The worksheet does not ask you to change an existing rule or send a message. It helps you decide the safest next check.