[Word 2013] How do I reference a list value using a field or other method?

Question

Hello,

I am working on a document that has massive lists. I reference earlier list values further down in the same list, and have to regularly update the document adding more list items in between the list value being referenced, and the list value later on in the list. Meaning list values are constantly changing.

Example:

1. zebra
2. cheetah
3. rhino
4. cat - refer to list item 2. for information on large cats.

Then I make changes:

1. zebra
2. cobra
3. cheetah
4. rhino
5. cat - refer to list item 2. for information on large cats. - The reference number (2.) I want to update automatically when I change the list items. (The reference in list value 5. should now be referring to 3. instead of 2.)

How could I accomplish automating the above example?

Thanks.

UPDATE: I found one method to do this.

First: Set a bookmark of the list value you want to reference later on.

Second: In the later on list value, place a REF field in the body.

Thrid: Have that REF field reference the bookmark you have named. Set the REF field checkmark next to, "Paragraph # in full context".

Fourth: Whenever you make changes, make sure to update fields. (Found a quick method of updating all fields at once by going to File>Print, then backing out.) [Microsoft community answer]

This method is better than nothing, is there a more efficient method to do this?

Answer 1

If you insert a cross-reference to a numbered item, a bookmark is automatically assigned to that item.