This article explains how to use AutoText, which is an easy way to speed up document creation in Microsoft Word. Use AutoText to automatically insert predefined text in documents such as datelines, salutations, and more. Instructions cover Word 2019 through 2007, and Word for Microsoft 365.

What to Know

  • To use predefined AutoText, select the Insert tab. In the Text group, select Quick Parts > AutoText. Choose a predefined AutoText entry.To add a dateline, go to Insert > Date and Time and choose a template.To create your own entry, select the text for the snippet, press Alt+F3. Fill out the Create New Building Block dialog box and select OK.

How to Use Word’s Existing AutoText Entries

Word includes some predefined AutoText entries. Insert your name or a dateline, for example. Here’s how:

  • Select the Insert tab.
  • In the Text group, select Quick Parts > AutoText.
  • Select one of the predefined AutoText entries to add it to your document.
  • To add a dateline, go to Insert > Date and Time and choose a template.

How to Create Your Own AutoText Entry

If the predefined AutoText entries don’t suit your needs, create your own entries and insert these entries into documents. Here’s how:

Select the Insert tab.

In the Text group, select Quick Parts > AutoText.

Select one of the predefined AutoText entries to add it to your document.

To add a dateline, go to Insert > Date and Time and choose a template.

  • Select the text in your document you want to make into a reusable snippet.
  • Press Alt+F3.
  • Fill out the information in the Create New Building Block dialog box. You can leave most of the default options as-is, but give the AutoText entry a unique and descriptive name.
  • Select OK.
  • The new AutoText entry is available to add to your document.

Select the text in your document you want to make into a reusable snippet.

Press Alt+F3.

Fill out the information in the Create New Building Block dialog box. You can leave most of the default options as-is, but give the AutoText entry a unique and descriptive name.

Select OK.

The new AutoText entry is available to add to your document.

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