How to Fix Word Not Remembering Caption Numbering Preferences
Question details
The user needs Microsoft Word to keep caption chapter numbering set to Heading 2 so figures and tables remain numbered like Figure 8-1 and Table 8-1.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- The user configures Word caption numbering to use Heading 2 for chapter numbers and expects the setting to persist between sessions.
- Observed behavior
- After Word restarts, the caption numbering preference returns to Heading 1 instead of remaining on Heading 2.
Before applying the workaround, confirm that the document chapter titles use the built-in Heading 2 style; Word relies on this style to create chapter-numbered captions such as Figure 8-1 or Table 8-1.
Run a Document_Open Macro to Reapply Heading 2 Caption Numbering
Use this recommended workaround when you want Word to restore Heading 2 chapter numbers automatically every time the document opens.
Word normally stores caption numbering preferences in the Normal template, but a known issue can reset any heading level other than Heading 1 after restart. A small VBA macro can reapply the expected setting when the document opens.
In the affected Word document, press Alt+F11 to open the Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications editor.
In the Project pane, expand Microsoft Word Objects for the active document and double-click ThisDocument.
Add a Document_Open procedure that sets CaptionLabels("Figure").ChapterStyleLevel = 2 and CaptionLabels("Table").ChapterStyleLevel = 2 so both figure and table captions use Heading 2.
Go to File > Save As, choose Word Macro-Enabled Document (*.docm), save the file, and reopen it to run the macro automatically.
Manually Reset Caption Numbering to Heading 2 After Opening Word
Use this method if you prefer not to use macros and only need a quick manual correction for the current Word session.
Use WPS Writer as a Free Microsoft Word Alternative for Caption-Heavy Documents
If Microsoft Word keeps resetting caption numbering preferences, WPS Office is a free, lightweight alternative that opens and saves Word .docx files. WPS Writer provides a familiar ribbon interface and caption tools, so you can manage chapter-numbered captions without a Microsoft 365 subscription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word keep resetting my caption number from Heading 2 to Heading 1?
Caption numbering preferences are stored in the Word Normal template, but Word has a known issue retaining any heading level other than Heading 1 after restart. This is why the Chapter starts with style setting appears to reset.
Can I make Word remember Heading 2 caption numbering permanently?
There is no built-in permanent fix reported for this Word issue. A Document_Open macro can reapply Heading 2 caption numbering each time the document opens, but you must save the file as a macro-enabled .docm document.
How do I manually set Heading 2 for captions in Word?
In Word, go to References > Insert Caption > Numbering, check Include chapter number, and set Chapter starts with style to Heading 2. Click OK twice to apply the setting.
Does WPS Writer support caption numbering with Heading 2?
Yes. WPS Writer includes caption and chapter-numbering controls in its References tab, and it opens and saves Microsoft Word .docx files for easier switching.
Will WPS Office open my existing Word documents with captions and tables?
Yes. WPS Writer supports .docx files and preserves common formatting, captions, tables, and images when you open and save them.
