WD2000: Cannot Insert Nested Formula with Insert Field Command (211644)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Word 2000
This article was previously published under Q211644

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to create a field containing nested instructions or multiple switches, the field is not inserted correctly.

For example, if you attempt to create a field similar to the following by adding multiple switches to the EQ field in the Field Options dialog box

{EQ \F({EQ \R(,)},)}

Word inserts the field incorrectly, like this:

{EQ \F(,) \R(,)}

CAUSE

The Field dialog box does not allow recursion or the nesting of multiple instructions or switches. However, you can add additional instructions or switches manually.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior, use one of the following methods:

Method 1: Create a Nested Field

For example, to create a nested field similar to

{EQ \F({EQ \R(,)},)}

follow these steps:
  1. On the Insert menu, click Field.
  2. In the Categories list, click Equations and Formulas. In the Field Names list, click to select EQ.
  3. Click Options.
  4. In the Switches list in the Field Options dialog box, select \F(,) and then click Add to Field.
  5. Click OK to close the Field Options dialog box.
  6. Click OK to close the Field dialog box.

    Your inserted field should look similar to the following:

    {EQ \F(,)}

    NOTE: If you do not see the field, press ALT+F9 to turn on the field codes in your document.

  7. Move the insertion point to the left of the comma inside the parentheses.
  8. On the Insert menu, click Field.
  9. In the Categories list, click Equations and Formulas. In the Field Names list, click to select EQ.
  10. Click Options.
  11. In the Switches list in the Field Options dialog box, select \R(,) and then click Add to Field.
  12. Click OK to close the Field Options dialog box.
  13. Click OK to close the Field dialog box.

    Your inserted field should now look similar to the following:

    {EQ \F({EQ \R(,)},)}

Method 2: Use Equation Editor

  1. On the Insert menu, click Object.
  2. Click Create New.
  3. In the Object Type list, select Microsoft Equation 3.0 and click OK.
  4. On the Equation toolbar, click the Fraction and Radical Templates button.
  5. Enter the information you want to use in your formula.
  6. When finished, click Exit and Return to <filename> to close Equation Editor. If you see a field code that is similar to the following, press ALT+F9 to turn off the field codes in your document.

    {EMBED Equation.3}

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:12/6/2000
Keywords:kbfield kbprb KB211644
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