Field code insertion error

Question

Hello,

I'm having considerable difficulty in Word 2013 getting fields to work correctly when inserting them using CTRL+F9.  If I go to the insert ribbon and insert a field that way it works fine.  However, if I use CTRL+F9 to insert the brackets and then type the field code (exactly as if I inserted it via the ribbon) it brings up the error message "Error! Too many picture switches defined."  I am unable to work out what I am doing wrong.  The screen shot below shows the error message and the field code.  Any assistance anyone can offer would be greatly appreciated!

Regards,

Shane

Answer 1

Microsoft Word still inserts the \* MERGEFORMAT switch when you insert it from the ribbon.

The \* MERGEFORMAT switch is only inserted if you leave the 'Preserve formatting during updates' option checked.

Answer 2

If you want to send me a document that exhibits the problem, I will investigate it.

You can decipher my email address from my signature or obtain it from my profile at:

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/profile/5846a56b-3e92-46d7-b5bf-4f65922e1f56?sort=lastreplydate&dir=desc&tab=qna&forum=&filter=All&page=1&tm=1374543937262

Answer 3

Microsoft Word still inserts the \* MERGEFORMAT switch when you insert it from the ribbon.  I have tried the field code without the \* MERGEFORMAT switch and I still experience the same issue.  It's got me completely baffled.  A repair install has unfortunately not rectified the issue.

Regards,

Answer 4

Both constructs look fine to me and neither should cause any errors. That said, though, you really don't need the \* MERGEFORMAT switch. Did you select the field and Press F9 to update it?

If the problems persist, try repairing the Office installation (via Programs & Features > Microsoft Office > Change in the Windows Control Panel).

Answer 5

I cannot replicate the problem here in Word 2013.  However, the \* MERGEFORMAT switch is not required.  Does it work without that.