WordÆs function-key shortcuts can save you a considerable amount of time, but because they're difficult to remember, they are rarely used. Most of Word 2000's toolbars pop up automatically when needed, but the one that lets you use your mouse to activate function-key shortcuts can't be found by right-clicking a toolbar or selecting ViewÑToolbars. Here's how to enable one of my favourite hidden features.

Select ToolsÑCustomize, then click the Toolbars tab in the Customize dialog box. Select Function Key Display in the Toolbars list, then click Close. A new toolbar will appear just above Word's status bar. Click a Function Key button on the bar to activate the shortcut. To access shifted functions, press the <Shift>, <Alt>, or <Ctrl> key (or a combination of those keys) to see the new function on the toolbar, then click the button without releasing the keys. Now you just have to remember to use it.

By GEORGE CAMPBELL