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How to Hide or Remove HYPERLINK Field Codes in Microsoft Word
Question details
The user wants to stop Microsoft Word from displaying raw field codes like {HYPERLINK "website link"} and restore them to normally formatted, clickable text links.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Formatting a document that contains web links or cross-references.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft Word displays raw field codes instead of the actual clickable hyperlink values.
Verify if only a single hyperlink is displaying as a field code or if the issue affects all links across your entire document, as this determines the best troubleshooting step.
Use the Field Code Toggle Keyboard Shortcut
The fastest way to fix hyperlink displays is by toggling the field codes shortcut, which instantly restores normal text links across the document.
Launch Microsoft Word and open the document where the {HYPERLINK} codes are visible.
Hold down the 'Alt' key and press 'F9' on your keyboard. If you are using a laptop, you may need to press 'Fn + Alt + F9' instead.
Check your document to ensure the raw field codes have reverted to standard blue, clickable hyperlinks.
Disable Field Codes via Advanced Word Options
If the keyboard shortcut does not work, you can manually disable the field code display setting in the Word Options menu.
Manage Hyperlinks Flawlessly with WPS Writer
If you frequently encounter formatting glitches with field codes, try WPS Writer. It handles documents smoothly, ensures high compatibility with Microsoft Word, and makes managing hyperlinks incredibly intuitive.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your device.
- 2. Open your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word document containing the hyperlinks.
- 3. Manage Links Easily: Select any text, press Ctrl + K to instantly create or edit a hyperlink, and enjoy a clutter-free reading experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my hyperlinks suddenly turn into {HYPERLINK} codes?
This usually happens if you or someone else accidentally pressed the Alt + F9 keyboard shortcut, which commands Word to display the underlying structural field codes instead of the final formatted text.
How do I completely remove a hyperlink but keep the display text?
To strip a link without losing the text, right-click the hyperlink and choose 'Remove Hyperlink' from the context menu. Alternatively, select the linked text and press Ctrl + Shift + F9.
Does hiding field codes delete my links?
No. Hiding field codes only changes how the document visually presents the data. The hyperlinks remain fully functional and will direct you to the correct website when clicked.
What if Alt+F9 only fixes one link instead of the whole document?
Alt + F9 toggles the setting for the entire document. If only one link is changing, you might be pressing Shift + F9 instead, which only toggles the field code display for the currently selected text.
