Use cross-references to link to other parts of a document

You’ve heard that cross-references can enhance the professional quality of a research paper. What are cross-references and how do they work?

A cross-reference is a pointer or link to an item that is in another location in a document – for example, “See Figure 1” to link to a salient graphic. You can create cross-references to headings, footnotes, bookmarks, captions, and numbered paragraphs.

Cross-references work the same in Word 2003, Word 2007, and Word 2010. If you’re using Word 2007 and Word 2010, on the References tab, in the Captions group, click Cross-reference. The dialog box and steps for creating cross-references is exactly the same for all three versions of Word.

Check out Create a cross-reference or Paragraph number options in cross-references to get started.

Don’t miss other great research information and resources, including 20 tips for easing the pain of going back to school. Visit the Office in Education blog.

—Leslie Cole