Cross-referencing to an Automatic Number

Summary: Word allows you to add automatic numbering to different elements of your document, such as to headings. If you want to create a cross-reference to a number that is automatically added, you can do so by applying the technique in this tip. (This tip works with Microsoft Word 97, Word 2000, Word 2002, Word 2003, and Word 2007.)

Jennifer wonders if there is a way to cross reference only the number portion of a field-based number. For example, she wants to cross reference to a paragraph numbered 'Section 1.1', but have the cross reference display only the 1.1, not the word 'Section.'

This can be done by modifying the way you insert your cross-reference. Follow these general steps:

Position the insertion pointer where you want the cross-reference to appear.
Display the Cross-reference dialog box. (Click here to see a related figure.) In Word 2007 display the References tab of the ribbon and then click the Cross-reference tool in the Captions group. In older versions of Word choose Cross-reference from the Insert menu.
Using the Reference Type drop-down list, choose Heading. (This assumes that your sections in your document are actually numbered headings.) Word displays a list of heading styles in the dialog box.
Select the footnote you want used for this reference.
Using the Insert Reference To drop-down list, choose Heading Number (no context).
Click Insert. The cross-reference is inserted, and it includes only the number.

Tip #6931 applies to Microsoft Word versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003 | 2007

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Cross-referencing to an Automatic Number