Fix Microsoft Word Hyperlinks Not Displaying as Blue and Underlined
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where hyperlinks or cross-references fail to display the standard blue, underlined formatting.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Inserting cross-references or creating clickable links within a document.
- Observed behavior
- The inserted link text does not appear blue or underlined, even when the Hyperlink style seems active, usually because a REF field with an \h switch overrides the style.
Before proceeding, press Alt+F9 in your document to reveal field codes. This will help you identify whether your problematic text is a standard HYPERLINK or a cross-reference REF field.
Create Standard Hyperlinks Using the Insert Shortcut
Using the standard insert hyperlink method rather than a cross-reference REF field prevents field switches from overriding your text styles.
When creating cross-references, the application often uses a REF field containing an \h switch. This specific switch is known to override standard Hyperlink and FollowedHyperlink character styles, preventing the text from turning blue and underlined.
Highlight the specific text in your document that you want to turn into a clickable link.
Press the Ctrl + K shortcut on your keyboard, or navigate to the Insert tab on the ribbon and click Hyperlink.
Enter your destination URL in the Address bar or select a specific heading/bookmark within the document, then click OK to apply the standard formatting.
Manually Apply Formatting to REF Fields
If you must use a REF field for cross-referencing purposes, you can manually reapply the visual formatting to ensure it looks like a standard link.
Create and Format Hyperlinks Easily with WPS Writer
WPS Writer offers a straightforward, seamless way to insert and format hyperlinks in your documents. Avoid complicated field code style overrides and enjoy perfectly formatted links right out of the box.
- 1. Open your document: Download and open WPS Office, then open your document in WPS Writer.
- 2. Trigger the Hyperlink tool: Highlight your target text and press Ctrl + K to immediately open the Hyperlink dialog box.
- 3. Input the web address: Type or paste your destination web address into the Address field, or select a document heading from the left pane.
- 4. Apply the link: Click OK to instantly apply a perfectly formatted, blue and underlined hyperlink to your selected text.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my hyperlinks change to purple after I click them?
This color change is controlled by the FollowedHyperlink style. It is designed to change the link color to purple to indicate to the reader that the web page or destination has already been visited. You can modify this style in the Styles pane if you prefer them to remain blue.
How do I remove a hyperlink without deleting the underlying text?
You can quickly remove the link by right-clicking on the hyperlinked text and selecting 'Remove Hyperlink' from the context menu. The clickable destination will be removed, and the text will return to your default paragraph formatting.
Can I change the default color of all hyperlinks in my document?
Yes. Open the Styles pane, locate the 'Hyperlink' style, right-click it, and select 'Modify'. In the modification window, you can change the default font color and toggle the underline settings. This will automatically update all existing and future hyperlinks in your document.
