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Microsoft Dynamics 365 | Integration, Dataverse...
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Word: Linked Excel Cell Alignment in Sentence

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Hello. I want to write a sentence with multiple Excel links in the single sentence on one line. I cannot get the linked Excel cells in a Word document to remain in line in a sentence where it is inserted. When it updates it automatically adds a carriage return and the linked cell becomes the beginning of the following line. If I try to put more than one linked cell on a single line they merge to become one sort of combined link. Then when you update one of them one goes away and the other turns into hash marks.
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    DAnny3211 Profile Picture
    11,389 on at
    Word: Linked Excel Cell Alignment in Sentence

    Hi,

     

    This issue with linked Excel cells in Word breaking alignment or merging when updated is a known limitation of how Word handles embedded or linked objects—especially when multiple links are placed inline within a sentence.

     

    Here's how you can work around it:

     
     

    Recommended Approach

     

    1. Use Inline Shapes Carefully:

       

      • When inserting linked Excel cells, ensure they are inserted as inline text, not as floating objects.

      • Use Paste Special > Paste Link > Unformatted Text if possible. This keeps the link but avoids object formatting issues.

    2. Avoid Multiple Links in One Sentence:

       

      • Word tends to treat multiple linked objects in one line as a single compound object, which causes merging or formatting issues.

      • Instead, consider placing each link in its own content control or table cell to isolate them.

    3. Use a Table for Layout:

       

      • Create a single-row table with multiple columns.

      • Insert each linked cell into a separate column.

      • This keeps alignment intact and prevents merging.

    4. Use Fields Instead of Objects:

       

      • If possible, use Word fields ({ LINK Excel.Sheet.12 ... }) manually inserted via Ctrl+F9. This gives more control over formatting and placement.

    5. Update Links Carefully:

       

      • When updating, use Ctrl+A then F9 to update all fields.

      • Avoid clicking directly on the linked object, which can trigger reformatting or carriage returns.


    6.  
     
     

    Best Practice Summary

     

    • Use Paste Special with unformatted text.

    • Isolate links using tables or content controls.

    • Avoid placing multiple links directly in one sentence.

    • Use Word fields for advanced control.


    •  
     

    Please verify if this helps stabilize your layout and link behavior.

     

    Thanks and best regards,

    Daniele

    Note: This response was prepared with support from Copilot to ensure clarity and completeness.

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