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How to Display Hyperlink Results Instead of Field Codes in Word (Mac)
Question details
The user needs to restore the normal display of clickable hyperlink text instead of raw field codes in a Microsoft Word document.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Reading or editing a document where hyperlinks appear as backend code, making it difficult to read or click the links.
- Observed behavior
- Hyperlinks are displaying as bracketed field codes, such as {HYPERLINK "url"}, instead of standard underlined hyperlink text.
Ensure your Word document is in Print Layout view, as certain draft or web views can alter how embedded links and fields are visually displayed.
Use the Option+F9 Keyboard Shortcut
The fastest way to toggle between displaying field codes and displaying field results across your entire document.
Microsoft Word uses a global shortcut on Mac to reveal or hide the backend codes for all dynamic fields, including hyperlinks, page numbers, and mail merge data.
Launch Microsoft Word on your Mac and open the document containing the field codes.
Press the 'Option + F9' keys simultaneously. If your Mac is set to use F1-F12 as standard function keys, you may need to press 'Fn + Option + F9' instead.
Check your document to ensure the {HYPERLINK} codes have reverted to normal, clickable text.
Disable Field Codes in Word Preferences
If the keyboard shortcut does not work, you can manually disable the field code display through Word's settings menu.
Manage Hyperlinks and Field Codes Seamlessly in WPS Writer
If you frequently struggle with formatting and field codes in Word, WPS Writer offers an intuitive, highly compatible environment for managing documents. You can easily toggle hyperlink displays with a single click or standard shortcuts.
- 1. Open your document in WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open your .docx file.
- 2. Select the hyperlink: Highlight the field code or hyperlink you want to adjust.
- 3. Toggle the display: Right-click the highlighted text and select 'Toggle Field Codes', or press 'Option + F9' to switch the view instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Word document suddenly start showing {HYPERLINK} codes?
This usually happens if you accidentally press the 'Option + F9' shortcut while typing, or if the document was saved by someone who had the 'Show field codes' setting enabled in their Word preferences.
How do I toggle the field code for just one specific hyperlink?
To toggle a single hyperlink instead of the whole document, highlight the specific {HYPERLINK} code, right-click it, and select 'Toggle Field Codes'. Alternatively, you can select it and press 'Shift + F9'.
Does Option+F9 affect other elements in my document?
Yes, pressing Option+F9 toggles the display for all field codes in the document. This includes page numbers, tables of contents, dates, and mail merge fields.
What if Option+F9 doesn't work on my Mac?
Depending on your Mac's System Settings, the top row of keys might be controlling media and brightness. If so, you must hold the 'Fn' key as well, making the shortcut 'Fn + Option + F9'.
