The master document feature handlespage numbers, theindex, and thetable of contents.
This procedure applies to Word 2019, 2016, and Word for Microsoft 365.
What Is a Master File?
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Amaster fileshows the links for individual Word files.
The content of these subdocuments isnt in the master document, only the links to them are.
Plus, edits made to separate documents will automatically be updated in the master document.
Open Outline view by selecting theViewmenu then, from the Views group, selectingOutline.
Select theShow Documentoption from the Master Document group.
This option adds several additional buttons to this group.
SelectInsertand then select a subdocument.
Address individual warnings as they arise.
The order matters; the master document displays the subdocuments in the order you add them.
The subdocuments generally retain their original formatting unless you override it in the master document.
The best use case for master documents is probably book publishing.
