Excel data list to Word mail merge?

[mcardman]

I have an excel list of names, dates, and amounts owed that grows each day. I want to generate a report (using parameters) that allows me to print out summaries for each name (theoretically using mail merge?). The data looks something like this:

Name	Date Due	Amount owed
Mr. Smith	6/01/2014	$100.00
Ms. Dell	6/16/2014	$55.00
Mr. Smith	7/11/2014	$100.00
Mr. Green	7/17/2014	$75.00
Ms. Apple	6/01/2014	$200.00
Mr. Smith	7/23/2014	$100.00

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I would like to create individual report for each Name that shows how much they are owed in the next [variable] months/weeks/days. I understand this can easily be accomplished via a pivot table, however, I need the information to come out on letterhead with other text about when the payments. From what I gather, you cannot go from a pivot table to mail merge.

The report would be something like:

Dear Mr. Smith,​

According to our records, you are due to receive a total of $300.00 paid to you on:​

6/01/2014 $100.00
7/11/2014 $100.00
7/23/2014 $100.00

thank you,
xxx

​

Thank you for your help/solutions!

 

[John_w]

This can be done with what's called a 'directory' or 'catalogue' mail merge. For examples, see How to use mail merge to create a list sorted by category in Word and Microsoft Word Catalogue/Directory Mailmerge Tutorial | Windows Secrets Lounge

 

[Cindy Ellis]

Just a recommendation to add to the mix here...to simplify it, sort the data first on the field that you want to compile (name, in this case).

 

[mcardman]

Thanks for the direction. I've read through the MSKB article and attempted to follow along. I was unable to replicate the results shown on the MSKB--I guess I am mistyping some of the Word coding? I do not know how to generate the "IF" statements (etc.). I read through the "Microsoft Word Catalogue/Directory Mailmerge Tutorial | Windows Secrets Lounge" as well but again have the same issue of writing the code within the word document. I apparently am missing how to set up the code around the data field. Do either of you have a working word document that could be shared?