Hello, thank you for your answer but it doesnt help me. I am using 2010 and I am using, as stated in my post, the DEFAULT list numbering style. I have not added this style. its just the plain old default.
I cannot locate the More button to see all options but I followed your steps.
From what i can see, since this is the default List Numbering Style that it does start with 1.
One thing that I have found from another post is that Automate updating should be removed. I am trying this now. Still pullling my hair out.
This is so basic. Just using Header 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and List Numbers. All default. no custom styles. the very ONLY thing I did was move the list numbering to be left aligned instead of indented and this mess was created.
I hope you can help.