Backing Up Custom Dictionaries

Summary: The custom dictionary used in Excel contains the information you decide relative to spelling. After a while, you might start to realize how much work it took to get that dictionary just as you like it. Here's how to back up all that work. (This tip works with Microsoft Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, Excel 2003, and Excel 2007.)

The Excel spell-check program allows you to create a number of custom dictionaries for your use. At some time you may want to copy the custom dictionaries, either for a personal backup or to transfer to a different computer.

The default custom dictionary used by Excel is Custom.dic. However, custom dictionaries can be saved under any number of different names. You can see the name of the custom dictionary you are using by choosing Options from the Tools menu, then displaying the Spelling tab. (Click here to see a related figure.) The Add Words To drop-down list shows the name of the custom dictionary.

In Excel 2007 you can see the name of the custom dictionary by clicking the Office button, choosing Excel Options, clicking Proofing, and then clicking the Custom Dictionaries button. (Click here to see a related figure.)

The safest course to backing up custom dictionaries is to look for any file that has the DIC file name extension. Use the Windows Search tool to locate the files. You can then copy these files to some sort of backup media, such as an external hard drive, CD-ROM, or flash drive.

ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (3320) applies to Microsoft Excel versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003 | 2007

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Backing Up Custom Dictionaries