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How to Hide Index Entry Fields Mistaken for Bookmark Indicators in Word
Question details
The user needs to hide formatting marks that persist even after the 'Show Bookmarks' feature is disabled in Word.
- Product
- Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reviewing or editing a document where unexpected brackets or formatting marks appear around text, cluttering the view.
- Observed behavior
- Markings remain visible despite disabling bookmarks. These marks are actually hidden Index Entry fields displaying because hidden text or formatting marks are currently enabled in the document view.
Before proceeding, ensure you haven't intentionally turned on 'Show all nonprinting characters' for detailed formatting, as this will reveal all hidden fields including index entries.
Toggle Non-printing Formatting Marks Off
Use the ribbon toggle to quickly hide all non-printing characters, including index entry fields.
Index entry fields are considered non-printing characters. Toggling this display option is the fastest way to clean up your document view without deleting any necessary fields.
Open your Word document and click on the Home tab located in the top ribbon.
Find the Paragraph group within the Home tab.
Click the pilcrow (¶) symbol to turn off non-printing formatting marks. This should hide the index entry fields immediately.
Disable Hidden Text in Word Options
If the fields are still visible, you may need to disable the display of hidden text deep in the advanced document settings.
Remove Unnecessary Index Fields from Headings
If the index entry field was applied to a heading by mistake and isn't needed for an index, you can simply remove it.
Manage Hidden Text and Fields Seamlessly in WPS Writer
WPS Writer offers an intuitive interface to control formatting marks and hidden fields easily. It's fully compatible with Word documents, ensuring your layout remains intact while you work in a clean, distraction-free environment.
- 1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open the document containing the visible fields.
- 2. Go to the Home tab: Navigate to the Home tab on the top ribbon.
- 3. Toggle Editing Marks: Click the 'Show/Hide Editing Marks' icon (which resembles a pilcrow ¶) to instantly hide index fields and clean up your view.
- 4. Adjust advanced view settings: Alternatively, click Menu > Options > View, and uncheck 'Hidden text' to conceal all hidden fields globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell the difference between a bookmark and an index entry field in Word?
When displayed, bookmarks typically appear as heavy grey brackets around text (if 'Show bookmarks' is enabled in Options). In contrast, index entry fields appear as hidden text encased in curly braces with 'XE' inside, such as { XE "Keyword" }.
Why did index entry fields appear when I didn't add an index?
You or a collaborator may have accidentally marked a word or heading for an index, often triggered by pressing the shortcut Alt + Shift + X. Even if you haven't generated the final Index table, the marking fields will stay in the document.
Will these index entry marks show up when I print the document?
Generally, non-printing formatting marks and hidden index entry fields do not print. However, if 'Print hidden text' is checked in your Word printing options, they might appear on the paper. It is always best to toggle them off or check Print Preview before printing.
Does hiding formatting marks delete my index entries?
No, toggling off the formatting marks only changes how the document displays on your screen. The index fields remain safely hidden within the document and will function normally when you generate or update your Index.
