Sometimes I enjoy a program’s feature. Sometimes it can be a true pain in the rump. Take Word’s AutoCorrect and AutoFormat features. Please!
AutoCorrect and AutoFormat can be very handy. The do sensible things like fix typos, capitalize the first word of sentences, and things like “I” or a superscript th for 4th — that kind of stuff. But they can also be a royal pain.
For example, unless you tame it, AutoFormat will do things like automatic rules (lines across the page), headings, bullet lists, and other things you may not want. A key annoyance I have, for example, is that AutoFormat automatically converts a typed Web page address into a clickable URL. I don’t want that!
The key is to turn off the features that annoy you. From older versions of Word, choose Tools>AutoCorrect. In Word 2007, choose Word Options from the Office Button menu, then choose Proofing, and finally click the AutoCorrect Options button. For any version of Word, you’ll see the AutoCorrect dialog box displayed.
In the AutoCorrect dialog box, review the settings in the AutoCorrect and AutoFormat As You Type tabs. Those two locations are where the most potentially offensive options are found. For example, in the AutoFormat As You Type tab is where I find the “Internet and network paths with hyperlinks” options. Uncheck those options that offend you. Click OK. You’re free. Well, at least for that problem.
Terrible Keyboards Dept. I’m a keyboard aficionado. I enjoy using a good computer keyboard. I detest using a sucky one. So, obviously, I read with relish this PC World feature on the 10 Worst PC Keyboards of All Time.
