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How to Correctly Use the Lorem Ipsum Formula in Microsoft Word

Guest Writer Sep 28, 2026 871 views

Question details

The user is attempting to generate sample text in Microsoft Word using a formula, but typing =lorum() fails to produce any output.

How to Fix the Lorem Ipsum Formula Not Working in Microsoft Word

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Generating dummy text for layout testing and document formatting.
Observed behavior: The =rand() function works perfectly, but the =lorum() command is not recognized and fails to generate the pseudo-Latin placeholder text.

Before you start

Ensure that your cursor is placed at the very beginning of a new, blank line and that Word's 'Replace text as you type' AutoCorrect feature is enabled.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Correctly Spelled =lorem() Formula

The failure is caused by a spelling error in the formula syntax. The correct term is 'lorem', not 'lorum'.

Microsoft Word requires the exact function name to trigger its built-in sample text generator. Using a 'u' instead of an 'e' breaks the command.

Type the correct formula

Place your cursor on a new, empty line in your Word document and type exactly =lorem() without any spaces.

Execute the command

Press the Enter key on your keyboard immediately after typing the closing parenthesis.

Customize the length (Optional)

To control the exact amount of text, insert numbers within the parentheses. For example, typing =lorem(4,3) and pressing Enter will generate 4 paragraphs containing 3 sentences each.

Use the Correctly Spelled =lorem() Formula

Tip: Make sure not to add a space between the formula and the Enter keystroke, as this will prevent Word from recognizing the command.

Solution 2

Use Alternative Sample Text Formulas

If you prefer English placeholder text over Latin, Word offers other built-in formulas that might suit your layout needs better.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't the =lorem() formula work even when spelled correctly?

The dummy text generation relies on Word's AutoCorrect settings. To fix this, navigate to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options, and ensure the 'Replace text as you type' checkbox is enabled.

Can I control exactly how many sentences are generated?

Yes. You can specify the exact number of paragraphs and sentences by adding numbers inside the parentheses. The syntax is =lorem(paragraphs, sentences). For instance, =lorem(2,5) creates two paragraphs of five sentences each.

What is the difference between =rand() and =rand.old() in Word?

The =rand() command generates modern standard text (usually snippets from Microsoft documentation), whereas =rand.old() specifically inserts the classic 'The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog' pangram.

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