How to turn off and turn on the Automatic Numbered-List Feature in Word

This article provides a step-by-step guide to how to turn off and turn on the automatic numbered-list formatting feature in Microsoft Word.

By default, the automatic numbered-list feature is turned on the first time you start Microsoft Word. This feature automatically applies numbered-list formatting to a list if you type a number (or letter) followed by a period and a space or tab at the beginning of a paragraph. For example, if you type 1. or a., type your list text, and then press ENTER, Microsoft Word automatically inserts the next number (or letter) in sequence to create a numbered list.

How to turn off the automatic numbered-list feature

1. Start Word.
2. Use one of the following methods, as appropriate for the version of Word that you are running:
   • In Microsoft Word 2000, click AutoCorrect on the Tools menu.
   • In Microsoft Office Word 2003 and in Microsoft Word 2002, click AutoCorrect Options on the Tools menu.
   • In Word 2007, follow these steps:
     1. Click the Microsoft Office Button, and then click Word Options.
     2. In the left pane, click Proofing.
     3. In the right pane, under AutoCorrect Options, click AutoCorrect Options.
3. Click the AutoFormat As You Type tab.
4. Under Apply as you type, click to clear the Automatic numbered lists check box, and then click OK.

How to turn on the automatic numbered-list feature

1. Start Word.
2. Use one of the following methods, as appropriate for the version of Word that you are running:
   • In Word 2000, click AutoCorrect on the Tools menu.
   • In Word 2003 and in Word 2002, click AutoCorrect Options on the Tools menu.
   • In Word 2007, follow these steps:
     1. Click the Microsoft Office Button, and then click Word Options.
     2. In the left pane, click Proofing.
     3. In the right pane, under AutoCorrect Options, click AutoCorrect Options.
3. Click the AutoFormat As You Type tab.
4. Under Apply as you type, click to select the Automatic numbered lists check box, and then click OK.

For more information about how to turn off AutoFormat features in Word 2000, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: