Word – adding the document filename and path name into a Header or Footer

Add the document file name and path name (location of where the file is saved) into a Header or Footer to have the location of where the document is saved always on hand. It makes finding where you filed the document such an easy process either for you or for someone else who may need to modify or print the document too.

Fortunately Word supplies us with field codes that automatically insert the file name and path name of a document. Unfortunately adding these fields into your document isn’t a simple “one-click” process.

Add the document file name and path name to a Header or Footer

The following instruction works for Word 2010, Word 2013 and 2016.

1. First place the insertion point at the place in the document where you want the file name inserted.  If you would like it to be in the Header or Footer go to the Insert tab and then click Header or Footer > Edit Header or Edit Footer.
   Tip: to quickly edit a Header or Footer move your mouse pointer over either area and then double-click. You will immediately be in the editing area.
2. On the Insert tab click Quick Parts.
3. Click Field.
4. From the Categories list select Document Information.
5. From the Field names list select FileName.
6. (Optional) If you would like to specify a format select one from the Format list.
7. (Optional) If you would like to include the path name place a check mark in the Add path to filename box.
8. Click OK.

Resize the font

If the path and file name are quite long you might like to resize the font.

To do this just select the entire field. Include both the file name and the path. From the shortcut menu or from the Home tab click the Decrease Font Size button. This will allow you to still see the file’s details without the details taking up so much room.