Microsoft KB Archive/87517

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Using Multiple Custom Dictionaries with Excel Spelling Checker

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The information in this article applies to:


 * Microsoft Excel for Windows, versions 4.0, 5.0

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SUMMARY
In Microsoft Excel, you can use multiple custom dictionaries with the Spelling Checker; however, Microsoft Excel reads from only one Custom Dictionary at time. You can choose between multiple dictionaries provided they are in the same directory as the default dictionary.

MORE INFORMATION
Microsoft Excel uses the file specified in the [Spell Checker] section of the EXCEL5.INI, or the EXCEL4.INI file as the default custom dictionary.

To change the custom dictionary:


 * 1) Type a misspelled word in any cell in your worksheet.
 * 2) From the Tools menu (Options menu in version 4.0), choose Spelling.
 * 3) From the Add Words To: list, select the dictionary you want, and then choose the Cancel button.

This causes Microsoft Excel to change the setting in the EXCEL5.INI file, (EXCEL4.INI file in version 4.0) to reflect the dictionary you chose.

Note: If the dictionary you want is not in the list, you need to move it to the directory that contains the default dictionary file.

To find the directory that contains the default dictionary file:


 * 1) Open the EXCEL5.INI file (EXCEL4.INI in version 4.0) in any text editor, such as Notepad.
 * 2) Scroll down to the [Spell Checker] section.
 * 3) Note the path and file name in the Custom Dictionary 1= line.

For example:

Custom Dictionary 1=C:\WINDOWS\MSAPPS\PROOF\CUSTOM.DIC

Note: Microsoft Excel only reads dictionary files with a .DIC file extension.