Last time we talked about how you can store frequently used terms using Word’s AutoCorrect feature. AutoText is the cousin to AutoCorrect. Although AutoText isn’t quite as speedy to use, it has a couple of aspects that can make it more flexible in certain situations.
The most important difference between AutoCorrect and AutoText is that you can save AutoText entries with a particular template. AutoCorrect entries are always saved into the Normal.dot template, but with AutoText, you can save the entries to a specific template or copy them between templates.
AutoText also doesn’t replace every instance of a certain set keystrokes with a block of text. You must hit the F3 key to activate an AutoText entry. For example, if you create an AutoText entry called "be" for Beyond Entertainment, it wouldn’t be replaced every time you type the word be. You have to press F3 to change be to Beyond Entertainment.
To create an AutoText entry:
1. Select the text or graphics you want to store as AutoText. If you want to include formatting in the entry, make sure you include the paragraph mark in your selection.
2. Choose Edit|AutoText.
3. In the Enter AutoText entries here box, type a name for the entry. Word suggests a name, but you can type over the selection. If you want the entry to be attached to a specific template, change the Look in drop-down box to a different template. (The default setting is "All active templates.")
4. Click the Add button.
Now when you type your AutoText entry name (such as be) into your document and press F3, your full text appears.