Exel Formulas

[Stephenc66]

Exel will not allow me to create a new formula in a spread sheet.

Formulas in existing workbooks will update and can be copied to work else where in the workbook. Auto sum will also work from the task bar.

Any help greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance

[#2 · Accepted solution]

@Stephenc66 

If you are having trouble creating new formulas in Excel, there are a few things you can check and try to troubleshoot the issue.

Here are some common solutions:

1. Cell Selection:

Ensure that you are selecting the correct cells for your formula. Click on the cell where you want the result to appear and then type your formula.

2. Equal Sign:

All formulas in Excel must start with an equal sign (=). Make sure you are entering the equal sign before the formula.

3. Function Syntax:

Ensure that you are using the correct syntax for the function you are trying to use. For example, if you want to add the numbers in cells A1 and A2, your formula should look like =A1+A2.

4. AutoSum:

Since you mentioned AutoSum is working, you can use it as a workaround. Click on the cell where you want the sum to appear, then click on the AutoSum button (Σ) in the toolbar. Excel will automatically try to guess the range to sum.

5. Formula Bar:

Check the formula bar at the top of the Excel window. This is where you can directly enter and edit formulas. Make sure you are not in edit mode for a specific cell.

6. Cell References:

Ensure that your cell references are correct. If you are referencing cells in another sheet or workbook, make sure the references are accurate.

7. Calculation Options:

Check your calculation options. Go to the "Formulas" tab, click on "Calculation Options," and make sure "Automatic" is selected. This ensures that Excel recalculates formulas automatically.

8. Excel Version:

If you're using an older version of Excel, there might be limitations. Ensure you are using a version that supports the features you are trying to use.

9. Excel Add-ins:

Sometimes, third-party Excel add-ins can cause issues. Try disabling add-ins to see if that resolves the problem.

10. Excel Repair:

If none of the above solutions work, you might want to repair your Excel installation. This can be done through the Control Panel (Windows) or the Applications folder (Mac), depending on your operating system.

If the issue persists, providing more details about the specific formula (click on the link) you are trying to create or any error messages you receive could help in providing more targeted assistance. AI was partially deployed to support the text.

My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

Hope this will help you.

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[#3]

Thank you for the reply and the solution.

Up until yesterday I had started all my formula with @sum and this has worked. For some reason (maybe an update?) this no longer works. Using the = has now restored full functionality. All stored formula in saved work books has changed to = also.