Document Editing Problems

How to Fix Word Sorting Error Caused by Content Controls

John Wilson Oct 12, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is unable to sort a structured list and receives an error message stating that the content cannot be sorted because it is part of a content control.

How to Fix Word Sorting Error Caused by Content Controls

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Sorting a structured list, table of contents, or dictionary entries that contain content controls.
Observed behavior: Word blocks the sorting action and displays an error message because the default sorting type conflicts with the structured content controls in the document.

Before you start

Before modifying your sorting settings, ensure your cursor is placed correctly within the list or table you intend to sort, and review the document to identify which sections contain content controls.

Solution 1Recommended

Change Sorting Type to Headings

By switching the sorting criteria from Paragraphs to Headings, you can bypass the content control restriction while preserving your document structure.

Content controls protect specific elements of a document. When Word tries to sort by 'Paragraphs', it often conflicts with these protected blocks. Sorting by 'Headings' organizes the higher-level structure without breaking the internal controls.

Select the content

Highlight the specific structured list, dictionary entries, or table data that you want to sort in your document.

Open the Sort dialog

Navigate to the Home tab on the top ribbon and click on the Sort icon (usually depicted as 'A-Z' with a downward arrow).

Adjust the Sort by setting

In the Sort Text dialog box, look for the 'Sort by' dropdown menu. Change the selection from 'Paragraphs' to 'Headings'.

Apply and verify

Click OK to apply the new sorting rules. Check your document to ensure the list sorted correctly without triggering the content control error.

Check Settings Reverting: Word may occasionally revert the sorting option back to 'Paragraphs' automatically. If the error reappears on a subsequent sort, you will need to open the dialog and select 'Headings' again.

Sort Documents Easily with WPS

Use WPS Writer for Seamless Document Editing and Sorting

If you frequently encounter complex formatting conflicts, WPS Writer provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface for managing structured lists, tables, and dictionary entries without hassle.

1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open the document containing the list or table you wish to sort.
2. Select the target content: Highlight the text, list items, or table rows you want to reorganize.
3. Access the Sort tool: Go to the Home tab and click on the Sort icon in the paragraph settings group.
4. Apply sorting criteria: Choose your preferred sorting method (such as text or number) and click OK to instantly organize your content.

Free and lightweight Office suiteFully compatible with Microsoft Word formats (.docx)Intuitive sorting tools for paragraphs, headings, and tablesRich document editing and formatting features to manage complex layouts

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are content controls in a document?

Content controls are individual elements that you can add and customize for use in templates, forms, and structured documents. Examples include drop-down lists, date pickers, or specific text boxes that protect formatting.

Why does sorting by paragraphs cause an error with content controls?

When sorting by paragraphs, the word processor attempts to break up and rearrange text blocks. If those blocks are locked or structured within a content control, the application prevents the action to avoid breaking the form structure.

How can I remove a content control if it is no longer needed?

You can remove a content control by right-clicking on it and selecting 'Remove Content Control'. The text inside will remain as standard text, which can then be sorted normally by paragraphs.

Does changing the sort to 'Headings' affect my table of contents?

No, sorting by headings allows dictionary entries and structured lists to be rearranged while safely preserving the integrity of your table of contents and any embedded tables.

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