Optional Text formatting

Question

I have text that has been formatted using the List drop down-like an outline.   I want to be able to format the test using the Text Styles.  However,  I have seen this work where the higher level text can be made optional and then the lower level text is automatically made optional BUT it does not change its relationship to the higher level text.  It stays indented , for instance. 

How is this done?  I have tried several version in the Text Styles area but cannot find how to do just this.

Answer 1

Numbering levels in a multilevel list have fixed indents in Word, so I don't see a way to do what you are asking, assuming that I understood your question this time.

You can apply numbering levels in the "wrong" order, but you won't like the result. For example, if level 2 numbering is applied at the very beginning of a list and level 1 follows, level 1 will renumber (even though the starting number is set to 1):

     b) Level 2

2. Level 1    <--- Level 1 starts at 2

Word assumes the presence of the "missing" level 1 item.

Answer 2

I would like to be able to make the parent text optional and all of the dependent text ( children)  become optional as well but retain their relationship to the parent.  For instance,  if there is a section like the following:

1. High level text heading

              a)      first sub level text

                  .1)      second sub level text

I want to be able to make the 1. High level text heading  option.  Subsequently,  the first sub level text and the second sub level text would become optional as well AND retain their outline relationship to the 1.High level text heading - meaning they would not change their indent for the a) and the .1).  I have seen this done before in Word but I am not sure if it is something native to Word or was some type of Macro.    It is very, very helpful when you need to do mass editing of lots of outline formatted text.   I was able to place the cursor next to the 1. and select optional text and the whole outline string became optional.

Answer 3

You have to explain more in detail what you are trying to accomplish.