Forum Discussion
The colours and fonts automatically changes on shared excel file
Hi! We use a shared document to import data. We have a lot of different tabs, colours and informations on it, which is really important it stays that way, it is updated 100x per day between 10 people.
However lately when someone opened the excel file the colours of the cells changes automatically to colour what we dont use, there is usually between 1-3 different colours per cells. Some cells also change font when clicking on it then back to normal when we click on another cell. We have tried to create new file with new cells but nothing works.
1 Reply
When you encounter issues with colors and fonts changing automatically in a shared Excel file, it can be frustrating, but there are several potential causes and solutions you can explore:
1. Compatibility Mode:
- Make sure everyone is using the same version of Excel and that the file is not being opened in compatibility mode. Compatibility mode can cause formatting issues.
2. Conditional Formatting:
- Check if there are any conditional formatting rules applied to the cells. Conditional formatting can override manual formatting. Go to the "Home" tab, click on "Conditional Formatting," and check the rules.
3. Default Excel Template:
- Check if the default Excel template is causing issues. Create a new Excel file and apply your desired formatting. Save it as the default template (Book.xltx or Book.xltm) in the Excel startup folder.
4. Styles and Themes:
- Be cautious with styles and themes. If the file uses a specific theme or styles, make sure everyone has the same theme applied. Styles and themes can sometimes lead to unexpected formatting changes.
5. Workbook Sharing:
- Confirm that workbook sharing is set up correctly. Go to the "Review" tab, click on "Share Workbook," and ensure that the settings are appropriate for your collaboration needs.
6. Check for External Add-ins:
- Sometimes, external add-ins can interfere with formatting. Try opening the file in Excel in Safe Mode (run excel.exe /safe), which disables add-ins.
7. Cell Styles:
- Check for cell styles applied to the cells. Go to the "Home" tab, click on the "Cell Styles" dropdown, and review the styles applied.
8. Cell Protection:
- Ensure that cell protection is not causing the issue. Go to the "Review" tab, click on "Protect Sheet," and review the options.
9. Review Changes:
- Use the "Track Changes" feature to review changes made by different users. Go to the "Review" tab and click on "Track Changes."
10. Update Office:
- Ensure that all users are using the latest version of Microsoft Office. Sometimes, updating Office can resolve compatibility issues.
11. Backup and Repair:
- Make a backup of the file and try repairing it. Go to "File" > "Info" > "Manage Workbook" > "Recover Unsaved Workbooks" or use the "Open and Repair" option.
12. User-Specific Settings:
- Check if the issue is user-specific. If possible, try opening the file on a different computer to see if the issue persists.
If the issue persists after trying these steps, it may be a complex problem, and you may need to involve your IT support for a more in-depth investigation into the file and its behavior.
The text and steps were edited with the help of AI.
This text is intended to help you investigate possible sources of error.
My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!
Hope this will help you.
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