How to Fix Error Hyperlink Reference Not Valid in Word for Mac
Question details
The user needs to fix a hyperlink reference error to correctly view an applicant's email address in a downloaded resume.
- Product
- Microsoft Word for Mac
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Opening a downloaded resume document to review contact information.
- Observed behavior
- The document displays the text 'Error! Hyperlink reference not valid' where an email address or link should normally appear.
Before making changes, verify whether this error occurs in just one specific resume or across multiple downloaded documents to determine if the issue is with the file or your application.
Inspect and Recreate the Broken Hyperlink
Manually checking and fixing the specific hyperlink is often the quickest way to resolve isolated link errors in a downloaded document.
This error commonly occurs when a document contains a hyperlink pointing to a bookmark or field that has been deleted, corrupted, or not properly downloaded.
Locate the 'Error! Hyperlink reference not valid' text in the resume and right-click on it.
Select 'Edit Link' or 'Hyperlink' from the context menu to inspect the current destination of the hyperlink.
If the email address or URL is malformed or missing, type the correct information into the 'Address' or 'Email Address' field and click 'OK'.
Test the Document in Word for the Web
Opening the file in Word for the Web helps isolate whether the issue is embedded in the document itself or caused by a bug in your local Mac Word application.
Update Word and Check Field Codes
Software bugs or corrupted document field codes can trigger false hyperlink errors. Updating the application and checking underlying references can resolve these underlying issues.
Open Resumes Without Link Errors Using WPS Office for Mac
Tired of dealing with field code errors and broken hyperlinks in Microsoft Word for Mac? WPS Office provides a highly compatible, free alternative that renders documents accurately, allowing you to view and interact with resumes effortlessly.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Get the free WPS Office suite for Mac from the official website and install it on your device.
- 2. Open the resume: Right-click the downloaded resume file, select 'Open With', and choose WPS Office.
- 3. View without errors: Scroll to the contact section to view and click the applicant's email address without encountering reference errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word for Mac say 'Error! Hyperlink reference not valid'?
This error occurs when a hyperlink in the document points to a specific bookmark or field reference that has been deleted, moved, or corrupted. It is especially common in documents that have been converted, downloaded, or generated from third-party resume builders.
How do I remove the error code text in Word?
You can select the error text, press the Delete key, and manually type the correct email address or URL. Once typed, press the Spacebar or Enter, and Word will automatically format it as a fresh, working hyperlink.
Will converting the resume to PDF fix the broken links?
No. If the link is already broken and displaying the error message in Word, converting or exporting it to PDF will simply preserve the error text. You must fix the hyperlink reference in the Word document before saving it as a PDF.
Can opening the document in another app resolve the error?
Yes, sometimes formatting or field code rendering issues are specific to Microsoft Word's engine. Opening the same document in an alternative suite like WPS Office for Mac can bypass the error and display the text or link as intended.
