can't "freeze" numbered lists

[Andy Gallant]

Hello.

I have inherited some files with numbered lists but lots
of different formatting. I want to "freeze" each
paragraph number without changing any other formatting or
style. In other words, I want to keep the original
number with the paragraph, even if I edit the file (for
example, by deleting some other paragraphs).

Is there any way to do this (replace a paragraph number
with the value) using Word 2002/WinXP Pro?

Thanks.

-Andy

 

[Shauna Kelly]

Hi Andy

You can replace the numbering with plain characters as follows. BUT... this
is a one-way street. Once
you've done this, all the automatic numbering in the document has gone
forever. The only way to get it back would be to delete the plain characters
and re-instate the numbering.

Get the document you want to change on the screen. Alt-F11 to get to the
Visual Basic Editor. There you should see an Immediate pane. If you don't,
do View > Immediate Window. In the immediate pane type
ActiveDocument.ConvertNumbersToText and press Enter. File > Close to get
back to your document.

It would be wise to make a backup copy of your document before you do this.

Hope this helps.

Shauna Kelly. Microsoft MVP.
http://www.shaunakelly.com/word

 

[Andy Gallant]

Hi Shauna.

It works! You truly are an MVP.

Many thanks, and with best regards,

-Andy