Forum Discussion
How do I correct heading numbering?
UPDATE: I couldn't remove this post, after I discovered the issue. Thanks!
I need to update heading numbering within an old document. Custom headings were made (as pictured) but I need the heading levels 2 and 3 to include the parent heading number of each. When I attempt to update the level 2 heading for Section 2, it wants to continue with Section 1 (see pictured example). In the number format, I do not know how to tell Word to include the parent numbers? I included "1." thinking it was intelligent enough to know that was just a format designation of the parent heading, but I guess that isn't how. I realize I may be making some glaring mistakes, but just trying to get it right.
So this is a learning moment. The caveat here is that I'm not creating the heading from scratch but rather, trying to update the existing document headings. I did follow some online suggestions but none of them addressed including the parent value in this scenario.
Section 2 <Heading Level 1 text format> <-- Here I need the word "Section" to proceed the level 1 heading number
2.1 <Heading Level 2> <-- Here I need the level 2 heading to include the parent section level number
2.1.1 <Heading Level 3> <-- Here I need the level 3 heading to include level 1 and 2 numbers.
2 Replies
See the article "How to create numbered headings or outline numbering in your Microsoft Word document" on the following page of the Late Shauna Kelly's website:
http://shaunakelly.com/word/numbering/numbering20072010.html?p=1768
Try this:
- Use Built-In Heading Styles
Ensure Word built-in Heading 1, Heading 2, and Heading 3. This is crucial for multilevel numbering to work properly.
- Apply Multilevel List
- Go to the Home tab.
- In the Paragraph group, click the Multilevel List icon.
- Choose “Define New Multilevel List…” at the bottom.
- Configure Each Level
In the dialog box:
- Level 1:
- Number format: Type Section before the number (e.g., Section 1)
- Link level to style: Heading 1
- Number style: 1, 2, 3, ...
- Level 2:
- Number format: Leave as 1.1
- Include level number from: Level 1
- Link level to style: Heading 2
- Number style: 1, 2, 3, ...
- Level 3:
- Number format: Leave as 1.1.1
- Include level numbers from: Levels 1 and 2
- Link level to style: Heading 3
- Number style: 1, 2, 3, ...
Make sure to check “Restart list after” for each level to ensure numbering resets correctly under each parent.
- Apply Styles to Your Document
- Select each heading in your document and apply the correct style (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.).
- The numbering should now reflect the hierarchy: Section 2, 2.1, 2.1.1, etc.
Number your headings - Microsoft Support
