How to fix formatting issues with dotpoints in Word

In Word jargon, what you are referring to as a dot point, is called a bullet point, I believe.

For complete control over these, see Shauna Kelly's article https://shaunakelly.com/word/bullets/controlbullets20072010.html

Otherwise, you can handle things through AutoFormat as You Type settings, but this is far from perfect or easily predictable.

File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options > AutoFormat as You Type

I prefer to use Shauna Kelly's method of setting bullets linked to existing paragraph styles and using the style assignments to control the bullets. This method works with the set left- and first-indent with tabs and backspaces as well, although I do not use that myself.

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Hello @Natasha Heyer,

This usually happens when Word’s list indentation settings or AutoFormat behavior gets changed accidentally. Instead of creating a normal sub-bullet, pressing Tab can trigger paragraph formatting, underline styles, or large indents.

Please try these steps to check your Proofing setting:

• In Word, go to File > Options.
• Select Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.
• Open the AutoFormat As You Type tab.
• Make sure these options are enabled:
  • Automatic bulleted lists
  • Set left- and first-indent with tabs and backspaces

• Click OK.

Then test again with:

• Tab > move bullet right (sub-level)
• Shift + Tab > move bullet left

If the issue continues, try resetting the paragraph formatting:

• Highlight the affected list.
• Press: Ctrl + Q

This resets paragraph indentation/settings.

You can also create a fresh list by:

• Clicking the Bullets button from the Home tab.
• Starting a new list instead of copying old formatting.

If Word is still creating strange underlines or huge indents, the document itself may have corrupted formatting. A quick test is to open a brand-new blank document and see whether bullet points work normally there.

You may also want to try running Office Repair from Control Panel 

• Close all office apps completely.   
• Go to Control Panel > Program > Programs and Features   
• Right click on the Microsoft Office you've installed > Change.   

• Select Quick Repair first (fast and doesn’t require internet).   
• If the issue persists, run Online Repair (requires internet and takes longer).  

Please let me know the result after you try all the steps above and I'll be happy to help you troubleshoot further if needed.

Thank you and I wish you a great day!

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