WD97: Date Field Changes to Text Using Letter Wizard

• Microsoft Word 97 for Windows

SYMPTOMS

Case 1

When you run the Letter Wizard and select a date on the Letter Format tab, the date is inserted as text instead of as a date field.

Case 2

When you insert a date field in your document formatted with the Date style and then run the Letter Wizard, when you select a new date format on the Letter Format tab, the new date format will replace the original date field as text.

CAUSE

This functionality is by design. The Letter Wizard will not insert a new/changed date as a field and will inserted it as regular text.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, choose the appropriate method for your situation:

Method 1: Use the Date Format Displayed in Letter Wizard

If you inserted a date field before you ran the Letter Wizard, use the date format that is displayed in the Date Line box on the Letter Format tab.

NOTE: If you change to another date format and then change back to the original format that is displayed in this box, Word will insert the date as text instead of as a field.

Method 2: Replace Date Field After Running Letter Wizard

If you selected a new date format on the Letter Format tab in the Letter Wizard, click the Finish button. Then, select the date text, and replace it with the date field you want to use.