=sum(a1:a10)

is a relative reference formula. If you copy this formula and move it to a new location, the formula will change to reflect its location. However, there are times when you might need a formula that uses absolute referencing. One way to achieve this is to convert an existing formula to absolute. You don't even have to remember how to enter an absolute formula. All you must do is double-click the cell that contains the formula and then use the mouse to highlight the formula. Press F4, then Enter. Now you have a formula with absolute referencing.

While a formula is selected, you can use F4 to switch among all the referencing forms. If you'd like to give this a try, type in a formula, select it as we described, and then press F4 and watch the changes.

2003-Dec-17 11:14am nancy@nmmi.edu