WD2000: Template Layout Changes When Opened in Word (211862)

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft Word 2000 when you open a template that was created in a version of Word earlier than Word 97, the template looks different from the way that it did in earlier versions of Word. Specifically, document formatting (for example, character spacing, line spacing, and page breaks) is not displayed or printed the way that it was in earlier versions of Word.

CAUSE

Unlike earlier versions of Word, Word 2000 and Word 97 do not rely on printer information (metrics) to lay out the document. Word 2000 uses a new 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 earlier versions of Word), follow these steps:

On the Tools menu, click Options.
Click the Compatibility tab.
In the Recommended options for list, click Microsoft Word 2000.
Click to select the Use printer metrics to layout document check box.

The template will then use the layout scheme based on the current printer metrics.

NOTE: This is a document-specific setting and only affects 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 will become the defaults for all new documents based on the current template. If you click the Default button, the Recommended options for list changes 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 will be the same, regardless of whether you open it in Word 2000, Word 97, or in an earlier version of Word.