WD2000: Leading Spaces Removed with Inserted Database (211225)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Word 2000

This article was previously published under Q211225

SYMPTOMS

Microsoft Word removes leading spaces from your data records when you insert or merge an external database. In contrast, Word does not remove leading spaces when the data source is created in Word.

CAUSE

Word removes leading spaces from external databases.

WORKAROUND

Use either of the following methods to add the missing spaces to your merge document.

Method 1: Insert Extra Spaces

Insert extra spaces in the main document. These extra spaces should immediately precede the appropriate merge field.

Method 2: Create a Conditional Merge Field

Create a conditional merge field to include spaces. The following merge field example will insert five spaces if {mergefield name} equals Smith.
{If {mergefield name} = "Smith" "     "}
				
The following merge field will insert five spaces and the result of the {mergefield name} in your document:
{If {mergefield name} = "Smith" "     {mergefield name}"}
				

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:12/6/2000
Keywords:kbmerge kbprb KB211225