How to Fix Word Showing SEQ Field Codes Instead of Figure Numbers
Question details
The user needs to restore normal figure numbers in Microsoft Word captions, which are currently displaying raw SEQ field codes instead of sequential numbers.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Viewing or editing a document that contains figure captions.
- Observed behavior
- Captions display raw configuration codes like {SEQ Figure\* ARABIC} instead of visible, sequential figure numbers.
Verify whether this issue affects the entire document or just a single caption, as this will determine which troubleshooting step is the fastest to apply.
Toggle Field Codes Using Keyboard Shortcuts
The fastest way to switch between field codes and their actual values across your entire document.
Microsoft Word has a built-in shortcut that toggles the display of all field codes. Accidentally pressing this shortcut is the most common reason figure numbers suddenly turn into {SEQ} codes.
Launch Microsoft Word and open the document where the SEQ field codes are currently visible.
Press 'Alt + F9' on your keyboard. Note: If you are using a laptop, you may need to hold the Function key and press 'Fn + Alt + F9'.
Check your captions to ensure the {SEQ Figure\* ARABIC} codes have converted back into regular sequential numbers.
Disable Field Codes in Word Advanced Options
Adjust Word's backend settings to permanently prevent field codes from displaying by default.
Toggle Field Codes via Context Menu
Use the right-click menu to easily fix individual field codes without needing to memorize keyboard shortcuts.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Formatting
Tired of dealing with complex Microsoft Word formatting issues? WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative that offers perfect compatibility with Microsoft Word documents, ensuring your captions and field codes display exactly as intended without unnecessary hassle.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free software suite.
- 2. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word document containing the captions.
- 3. Edit with ease: Enjoy flawless formatting and easily manage your document elements with WPS Writer's intuitive interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Word document suddenly start showing field codes?
This usually happens if you or someone else accidentally pressed the 'Alt + F9' shortcut, which toggles the display of field codes across the entire document. It can also occur if the document's advanced settings were altered.
How do I update all figure numbers after adding a new caption?
To update all figure numbers, press 'Ctrl + A' to select the entire document, then press 'F9'. This will refresh all field codes, ensuring your figure numbers are perfectly sequential and up to date.
Will printing the document show the field codes or the numbers?
If Word is currently displaying the field codes on your screen (like {SEQ Figure}), they will print exactly as they appear. You must toggle them back to their numerical values using 'Alt + F9' before printing.
Can I delete the {SEQ Figure} code completely?
Yes, but doing so will remove the automatic numbering functionality for that specific caption. If you delete the field code, you will need to manually type the figure number or insert a brand new caption via the References tab.
