Microsoft KB Archive/178897

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XL97: F4 Key Does Not Change Cell Formula Reference

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The information in this article applies to:


 * Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows

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SYMPTOMS
When you try to change a cell reference to absolute, mixed, or relative by using the F4 key, the cell reference may not change.

CAUSE
This problem can occur when you are trying to change the cell reference of an entire row or multiple rows. For example, if you have =SUM(2:2) in cell A1 and try to change the reference using the F4 key, nothing happens.

WORKAROUND
To workaround this problem, you can type the formula with the appropriate references.

STATUS
Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in the Microsoft products listed at the beginning of this article.

MORE INFORMATION
If you want the reference to be relative, use =SUM(2:2). If you want the reference to be absolute, use =SUM($2:$2). An example of a mixed reference would be =SUM($2:2).