WD97: Reveal Formatting Does Not Work Inside a Text Box (197153)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Word 97 for Windows
This article was previously published under Q197153

SYMPTOMS

Using the Context Sensitive Help (or "What's This?") button to reveal the formatting of text does not reveal the formatting of text inside a text box.

CAUSE

Text boxes do not reside in the text layer; instead, they reside in one of the drawing layers above or below the text layer. By design, Microsoft Word does not reveal formats in the drawing layers.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior and view the format settings of text in a text box, follow these steps:
  1. Select the text in the text box.
  2. On the Edit menu, click Copy.
  3. On the Standard toolbar, click the New button.
  4. On the Edit menu, click Paste.
  5. On the Help menu, click What's This.
  6. Click the text to view the format settings.
  7. Close the document without saving changes.

MORE INFORMATION

In Microsoft Word 97 for Windows, the Help button for revealing formatting is not readily available on the toolbars. To place this button on a toolbar, follow these steps:

  1. On the Tools menu, click Customize, and then click the Commands tab.
  2. Under Categories, click Window And Help.
  3. Under Commands, drag the "What's This?" command to a toolbar.
  4. Click Close.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/14/2000
Keywords:kbprb KB197153
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