The description of these behaviors is termed the mechanism. When scientists are not provided with such a mechanism, then a description of a process, it's explanation, or it's understanding, is questioned. Astrology does not work with mechanisms. It works with relationships, patterns, tendencies, and interpretations. It does not always give a yes or no answer.
I hate the Drawing Canvas and I understand that it's not backward compatible, so I never use it. To turn it off in Word 2002 and above, go to Tools 4 Options, General tab. Untick Automatically create drawing canvas....
Photoshop's Gradient Tool is found in the Tools panel along the left of the screen. I'll select it by clicking on its icon. You can also select the Gradient Tool simply by pressing the letter G on your keyboard: Selecting the Gradient Tool from the Tools panel.