Here at matthewb.com we specialize in providing a website with no nutritional value whatsoever. But today we have a special feature.

This past spring, when I did the law review write-on, I cursed the fact that there wasn't a way to cross-reference footnotes in Word. Meaning, if you got to the end and had to insert or delete a footnote, all your supras and infras would be screwed up.

Strictly speaking, I should've been cursing my own ignorance, because there is a way to do it, which is a phenomenal freakin' time saver. So in the rare spirit of public service, I present:

How to Cross-Reference Footnotes in Word

1. In the main text, select the number of the footnote you want to cross-reference.
2. From the Insert menu, select Bookmark. Type a useful name for the footnote ("boring_journal_article") and click the Add button.
3. Go into the footnotes and put the cursor where you want the cross-reference. From the Insert menu, select Field.
4. Now, don't get intimidated, this is the most difficult, but magical step. From the Categories popup menu, select Links and References. Then, from the Field Names box below that, select NoteRef. In the middle, you will see a list with your bookmark name in it. Select it and click the OK button.
5. Voila, a cross-reference has been inserted. If you now add or subtract footnotes, the cross-reference can be updated with the right number. You can copy & paste this reference instead of going back to the Insert Field menu.
6. One more important thing. Word doesn't automatically update fields when they change. You have two options: a) go to Tools > Options > Print tab and check off 'Update fields'. This will update all fields before you print. b) Update the fields manually by selecting all the text and typing F9.

matthewb.com is not responsible for any errors or omissions in the above instructions. We are not liable for any direct or consequential damages arising from your use of the above information. You agree that you insert cross-references at your own risk and waive all claims, known and unknown, including those otherwise allowed by Cal. Civ. C. § 1542. Your visiting this website constitutes acceptance of these terms & conditions.

02 Dec 05