Word 2008: possible to have automatic updates of cross-references intext?

[Peter Lonsdale]

Hi,

I'm using Word 2008 and adding cross-references in text to Figure
captions. If I move figures around, I need to right click on the
cross-reference and select Update to make sure the right Figure number
is displayed.

Is there a way to make this happen automatically, for all Figure cross-
references?

I was sure that this used to happen automatically, but a quick check
in Windows XP 2003 suggests maybe I'm just wishing for a function that
has never been there!

Pete

 

[CyberTaz]

Cross-references do not automatically update in any version of Word

The fastest ways to force a global updating of cross-references are to
either switch to Print Preview then back to your working view or key
Command+A followed by pressing the F9 key to update all fields.

HTH |:>)
Bob Jones
[MVP] Office:Mac

 

[John McGhie]

Hi Peter:

As Bob says, cross-references don't work right in any version of Word.

However, you can get half-way there, by using ListNum fields instead of SEQ
fields for the Figure numbers.

ListNum fields are "hot" fields. i.e. They update dynamically, whereas SEQ
fields are "Cold" (they have to be manually updated).

So at least the Figure Number will update when you move the figures, so you
only have to update the cross-references.

If you know a bit about fields, ListNum fields are very useful. If you're
not comfortable coding fields, you may want to skip them.

It is just as easy to "Command + a, F9" to update the whole document. You
just have to remember to do it... Set Preferences>Print... To "Update
Fields" if you are forgetful:: at least that way every time you print it
everything will be up to date...

Cheers

Hi,

I'm using Word 2008 and adding cross-references in text to Figure
captions. If I move figures around, I need to right click on the
cross-reference and select Update to make sure the right Figure number
is displayed.

Is there a way to make this happen automatically, for all Figure cross-
references?

I was sure that this used to happen automatically, but a quick check
in Windows XP 2003 suggests maybe I'm just wishing for a function that
has never been there!

Pete

This email is my business email -- Please do not email me about forum
matters unless you intend to pay!

--

John McGhie, Microsoft MVP (Word, Mac Word), Consultant Technical Writer,
McGhie Information Engineering Pty Ltd
Sydney, Australia. | Ph: +61 (0)4 1209 1410
+61 4 1209 1410, mailto:[email protected]