Fix: Citations Showing Field Codes Instead of Text

Citations Showing Field Codes Instead of Text

How to fix when citations display as {CITATION} field codes instead of formatted text.

Solution rapide

Press Alt+F9 to toggle between field codes and results. This switches all fields in the document. For individual fields, right-click and select ‘Toggle Field Codes.‘

Étapes de résolution

1. Identify the problem — Note exactly when the issue occurs and any error messages
2. Try the quick fix — Apply the solution described above
3. Start Word in Safe Mode — If the issue persists, press Windows + R, type winword /safe, and test
4. Check for updates — Go to File > Account > Update Options > Update Now
5. Repair Office — If nothing else works, go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft Office > Modify > Online Repair

Questions fréquemment posées

If the issue persists after trying all steps, contact Microsoft Support or visit answers.microsoft.com. Include your Word version (File > Account > About Word) and a description of the steps you’ve already tried.

Prévention

• Keep Microsoft Office updated with the latest patches
• Regularly back up important documents
• Avoid installing untrusted add-ins
• Use .docx format for all documents (not .doc)