WD2002: Template Layout Is Changed When You Open the Template in Word (290970)

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft Word 97 and later, when you open a template that was created in a version of Word earlier than Word 97, the template looks different than the way that it does in earlier versions of Word. Specifically, document formatting (for example, character spacing, line spacing, and page breaks) is not displayed or printed in the way that it is in earlier versions of Word.

CAUSE

Unlike earlier versions of Word, Microsoft Word 2002, Microsoft Word 2000, and Word 97 do not rely on printer information (metrics) to lay out the document. Word 97 and later versions use a printer-independent layout scheme controlled by the Use printer metrics to lay out document compatibility option. This option is turned off by default.

WORKAROUND

To use printer metrics to lay out the document (and simulate the behavior of versions of Word earler than Word 97), follow these steps:

On the Tools menu, click Options.
Click the Compatibility tab.
In the Recommended options for list, click Microsoft Word 2002.
Click to select the Use printer metrics to lay out document check box.

The template now uses the layout scheme based on the current printer metrics.

NOTE: This is a document-specific setting and affects only the current document unless you click the Default button. If you click the Default button, all of the currently selected options on the selected tab become the defaults for all new documents based on the current template. If you click the Default button, the selection in the Recommended options for list is changed to Custom.

MORE INFORMATION

This behavior does not occur if the document or template contains printer fonts. If the document or template contains printer fonts, the document formatting is the same, regardless of whether you open it in Word 2002, Word 2000, Word 97, or in an earlier version of Word.