Tip of the week # 506
21 January 2017


Fast way to start a bulleted or numbered list (Microsoft Word and Outlook) *

Do you ever create lists of items in Word? For example, a numbered list of agenda items or a bulleted to do list? If so, you probably use the Bullets and Numbering buttons on the Home tab. But did you know you can benefit from the "format-as-you-type" feature to quickly start a bulleted or numbered list?

Here's how:

  1. Move the insertion point to the location where the list is to appear.
  2. Type an asterisk (*) or type the first number and press the TAB key.
  3. Type the list items, pressing ENTER at the end of each item.

To cancel the bullet or number, simply press ENTER a second time. This will also remove the indent level. To keep the indentation, press the BACKSPACE key. If you use BACKSPACE it is very easy to create a combined numbered and bulleted list.

By the way, in step 2 you can also use the SPACEBAR key rather than TAB. But be aware that for numbered lists this only works if you type a number format such as 1. or 1).
Oh, and this numbered format tip works in Outlook as well.

Have a go. It is easier than it sounds!


* Unless stated otherwise, these tips were written for Microsoft Office 2010.