Quick Tip: How to Use Field Codes in Microsoft Word 2010

Field codes are one of Microsoft Word’s key elements, frequently used by many users. If you have ever inserted a date or a page number to a document, you have used a field code. Despite their heavy use, many people are unaware of how they actually work.

What is a Field Code?

A field code is “smart” text – when used, they can update when needed. There are hundreds of various codes for various purposes, one of the most common being the code for the current date – 29at24-Ti1824 Pictu24. Any time the field updates, the information within the field updates.   

Field codes enable you to:

•  Build a document automatically in response to information provided by the user.
• Insert information about the document into the document itself.
• Perform calculations.
• Produce complex numbering systems that go beyond the capabilities of the Bullets and Numbering dialog.

How Do I Insert a Field?

There are two ways to insert a field code. The first way is, if you know the syntax, to press CTRL+F9 and enter the code for the function you wish to perform. The other and simpler way is to:

1. Click on the Insert tab.

2. Within the Text section, click Quick Parts.   

3. Select Field from the drop-down menu.

4. From the Field window, select your desired field on the left under Please choose a field. You can modify its display on the right under Field properties.

• Author (the author of the current document)
• AutoNum (automatic numbering format, e.g. for numbered lists)
• Date (the current date)
• Page (automatic page numbers)