Office Settings & Configuration

Fix Alt+F9 Opening Calendar Instead of Field Codes in Word

Adam Davis Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to view field codes using the Alt+F9 shortcut in Microsoft Word, as it triggers the system calendar and notifications instead.

How to Fix Alt+F9 Opening Calendar Instead of Field Codes

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Trying to reveal or toggle field codes in a Word document using the standard keyboard shortcut.
Observed behavior: Pressing Alt+F9 opens the system calendar and notifications instead of toggling the field codes.

Before you start

Check if your keyboard has an 'Fn' (Function) key and verify whether the 'Fn Lock' is currently activated, as this dictates how your top-row F-keys behave.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Alt + Fn + F9 Keyboard Shortcut

Bypass the default media or system shortcuts assigned to the F9 key by holding down the Fn key.

Many modern laptops and keyboards are configured to use the top row of keys for multimedia controls or system shortcuts (like opening the calendar or adjusting brightness) by default. To use standard function key commands like F9, you need to incorporate the Fn key.

Locate the Fn key

Find the 'Fn' (Function) key on your keyboard, typically located near the bottom-left corner next to the Ctrl or Windows key.

Hold the modifier keys

Press and hold the 'Alt' key and the 'Fn' key simultaneously.

Press F9

While holding both the Alt and Fn keys, press the 'F9' key at the top of your keyboard to successfully toggle the field codes in your document.

Fn Lock Alternative: If you frequently use function keys for Word shortcuts, you can usually press 'Fn + Esc' to enable Fn Lock, allowing you to use just Alt+F9 going forward.

Solution 2

Toggle Field Codes Using the Right-Click Context Menu

If keyboard shortcuts continue to conflict with system settings, you can manually reveal field codes using the mouse.

Manage Field Codes Easily

Use WPS Writer for Seamless Field Code Management

WPS Office offers a highly compatible and intuitive word processor where you can easily insert, view, and manage field codes without dealing with complex system shortcut conflicts.

1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open the document containing your field codes.
2. Select the field: Right-click on any inserted field, such as a date, time, or page number.
3. Toggle visibility: Select 'Toggle Field Codes' from the context menu to instantly view or hide the code format.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx) formats and field code structures.User-friendly interface allows for easy field code toggling right from the right-click menu.Lightweight software that runs smoothly on older or lower-spec computers.Free to use with a familiar layout, requiring zero learning curve.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my F-keys trigger system functions like the calendar or volume?

Many modern laptops and wireless keyboards default to 'multimedia' or 'system' controls for the F1-F12 keys to provide quick access to everyday settings. You must press the 'Fn' key in combination with them to access the standard function key software commands.

Can I permanently change the F9 key behavior back to standard?

Yes, you can usually toggle the 'Fn Lock' by pressing Fn + Esc. Alternatively, you can change the default function key behavior permanently in your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings, or through the manufacturer's keyboard control software (such as Lenovo Vantage or Dell Optimizer).

What is a field code in a word processor?

A field code is placeholder text used to automatically generate dynamic data in a document, such as page numbers, dates, or mail merge information. Toggling field codes reveals the underlying formula (e.g., { PAGE }) instead of the final displayed result.

How do I update a field code after changing its parameters?

To update a field code so it reflects new data or changes, click on the field to select it and press F9 (or Fn+F9). You can also right-click the field and select 'Update Field' from the context menu.