This command is always disabled? Any idea why? Any remedy? Currently I attempt to repeat my changes by reentering them under Modify...

I take it you mean update style to match formatting of selection?
First, I seldom do much with the Normal style. For most things, I use the Body Text style.
See Shauna Kelly's page on Using Styles to Format Text. Look at Step 5.
Ribbon versions: Use Body Text Style Instead of Normal Style


I do not have Word 2002.
In the Windows desktop application Word from a 365 subscription, the command is available for the Normal style.


In Word 2003, the command is also not available for the Normal style.
It is available for the Body Text style.


I again urge you to review Basic concepts of Microsoft Word: An introduction by Shauna Kelly, MVP. Doing so will save you time.

What I mean is "Update to Match Selection" - being the command name I see. I'd not verture more, esp. since when it does work, it is not confined to selection.

Thanks.

It remains a mystery, then.

I can confirm that the Update Normal to Match Selection command works in Word 365 (updated to version 2509, running on Windows 11), after direct formatting has been added to a paragraph which uses the Normal style.

Attached Images

Update_Normal_Style_365.png (45.5 KB, 8 views)

__________________
Stefan Blom
Microsoft Word MVP

Microsoft 365 apps for business
Windows 11 Professional

Thanks. The mystery deepens...