For work we have a standard proposal document we use. There are several things in it that change the most. For example, if job is in Ohio there are half a dozen places where we mention we are licensed in Ohio or different government groups we have to contact change for each state. There are also other things such as certain testing that if we dont do it, it requires changes to the text in the same spots everytime.

I am wondering if there is anyway I can create a template in word where i can select the state, and the text automatically changes in the spots where the state matters (so if Ohio then sentence changes to the Ohio sentence, if KY then a different sentence shows up). Also it would be extremely useful if i could click on and off options (certain tests, etc) and have it automatically add or remove that text based on what i select. Basically, my goal would be to open the template, click through all the options, have the text automatically update, and then i could go make all the other changes that are job specific after that.

I know this probably isnt going to be something simple but any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

See Automated Boilerplate Using Microsoft Word.

It can be done but you are right, it isn't simple. There are probably multiple ways to do what you want.

I would start by making coded AutoText entries for your variations.

I would then have a UserForm (if you can use macros) or a form drop-down list if you cannot. Create a Simple Userform

Your userform or drop-down gathers essential variable information.

Then you have locations in your document template to be populated by the AutoText entries by your UserForm. If you instead use a drop-down list you would use IF fields to test which conditions were met in your list and then use AutoText fields to pull in the AutoText entries.

Simple? Nope. But, it isn't rocket science either.

Another page to look at: Repeating Data (Populating Multiple Like Fields)
That page will give you a look at the multiple ways Word has to store variable information.