protected cells

Copper Contributor

Lock or unlock specific areas of a protected worksheet - Microsoft Support

I'm going to use this to see if it helps.  I'm working an amortization schedule, I don't want to lock the entire worksheet, only the section with formulas 

1 Reply

@Ponderosa 

Locking or unlocking specific cells in Excel can be achieved through cell protection settings.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

 

Lock or Unlock Specific Cells:

1. Select the Cells to Lock/Unlock:

Select the cells or range of cells that you want to lock or unlock.

2. Right-Click and Format Cells:

Right-click on the selected cells, and choose "Format Cells."

3. Go to the Protection Tab:

In the Format Cells dialog box, go to the "Protection" tab.

4. Check or Uncheck "Locked":

If you want to lock the cells, check the "Locked" option.

If you want to unlock the cells, uncheck the "Locked" option.

5. Click "OK":

Click "OK" to apply the changes.

 

Protect the Worksheet:

1. Select the Entire Worksheet (Ctrl+A):

Press Ctrl+A to select the entire worksheet.

2. Format Cells and Protect:

Right-click on the selected cells, choose "Format Cells," and go to the "Protection" tab.

Uncheck "Locked" to unlock all cells.

3. Protect the Worksheet:

Go to the "Review" tab on the Ribbon.

Click on "Protect Sheet."

4. Set Password (Optional):

If you want to password-protect the worksheet, enter a password in the "Password to unprotect sheet" field.

5. Specify Permissions (Optional):

Specify any additional permissions you want to allow, such as selecting locked cells or formatting cells.

6. Click "OK" and Confirm Password:

Click "OK" and, if you set a password, confirm it.

Notes:

  • Locked Cells: By default, all cells are locked when you protect a worksheet. If you have unlocked specific cells, only those will be affected.
  • Unlocking Specific Cells: If you only unlock specific cells and protect the sheet, users will not be able to edit or select locked cells. They will be able to interact with the unlocked cells as specified in the protection settings.
  • Formulas: If you have set formulas in the unlocked cells, users can interact with those cells while the rest of the worksheet remains protected.

By following these steps, you can selectively lock or unlock cells in Excel while protecting the rest of the worksheet.The text and steps were edited with the help of AI.

 

My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

 

Hope this will help you.

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