WD6X: Spelling Checker Flags Asterisks (**) in Custom Dictionary

ID: Q114746

The information in this article applies to:

• Microsoft Word for Windows, versions 6.0, 6.0a, 6.0c
• Microsoft Word for the Macintosh, versions 6.0. 6.0.1

SYMPTOMS

In Word, you can add most character combinations to the custom dictionary. However, if you add two or more asterisks (**) to the custom dictionary, the spelling checker does not recognize the addition, and suggests other options instead of the asterisks.

This functionality is different than in Word version 2.x.

CAUSE

This behavior is by design. In Word 6.0, the spelling checker treats the asterisk as a reserved character so that the asterisk can be used as a wildcard.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior, follow these steps:

1. Select the asterisks.

2. On the Tools menu, click Language.

3. In the Mark Selected Text As list, select (no proofing). Click OK.

STATUS

In Microsoft Word for Windows 95 version 7.0 and later and Microsoft Word 98 for Macintosh this character combination is ignored and not flagged.

Additional query words: 6.00 6.00a

Keywords          : kbproof winword macword word6 
Version           : WINDOWS:6.0 6.0a 6.0c; MACINTOSH:6.0
Platform          : MACINTOSH WINDOWS
Issue type        : kbprb
Solution Type     : kbfix

Last Reviewed: February 4, 1998