What are the common mistakes or pitfalls to avoid when deleting appendices and attachments?

2 Adjust the numbering

Another common mistake when deleting appendices and attachments is to forget to adjust the numbering of the remaining ones. For example, if you delete Appendix A and B, you need to rename Appendix C as Appendix A, and so on. This will ensure that your appendices and attachments are consistent and easy to navigate. To avoid this, use a tool like Word's caption feature or a numbering style to automatically number your appendices and attachments.

3 Update the table of contents

A related mistake when deleting appendices and attachments is to neglect to update the table of contents. The table of contents is a useful guide for your readers to find the information they need in your document. However, if you delete an appendix or an attachment that is listed in the table of contents, you need to remove it from the list as well. Otherwise, you will create confusion and frustration for your readers. To avoid this, use a tool like Word's table of contents feature or a style to automatically update your table of contents.

4 Consider the format

Another common mistake when deleting appendices and attachments is to ignore the format of the document. Depending on the type and purpose of your document, you might need to follow certain rules or conventions for using appendices and attachments. For example, some academic papers require appendices and attachments to be placed at the end of the document, while some business reports allow them to be attached separately. You need to check the format requirements of your document before deleting any appendices and attachments. To avoid this, consult the guidelines or instructions of your document, or ask for feedback from your supervisor or client.

5 Keep a backup

The final common mistake when deleting appendices and attachments is to not keep a backup of the original document. Even if you are confident that you have deleted the right appendices and attachments, and fixed all the related issues, you might still need to restore them later. For example, you might receive new information, feedback, or requests that require you to add them back. You need to keep a backup of the original document in case you need to undo your changes. To avoid this, save a copy of your document before deleting any appendices and attachments, or use a tool like Word's track changes feature or a version control system to keep track of your edits.