A dot appears where a space is expected in Word (328164)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Office Word 2003
  • Microsoft Word 2002
  • Microsoft Word 2000
This article was previously published under Q328164

SYMPTOMS

When you type text in a Microsoft Word document, a dot may unexpectedly appear when you press the SPACEBAR.

Dots instead of spaces may also appear in text that was previously entered.

CAUSE

This problem may occur if the view option to show spaces is turned on. The dot is a formatting mark that represents a space.

RESOLUTION

To hide the formatting marks for spaces, follow these steps:
  1. On the Tools menu, click Options, and then click the View tab.
  2. Under Formatting marks, click to clear the Spaces check box.

    Note If the Spaces check box is clear and the All check box is selected, click to clear the All check box.
  3. Click OK.
The formatting marks no longer appear.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:1/7/2006
Keywords:kbprb KB328164
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