Microsoft KB Archive/127997

Mac Works 4.0 Spreadsheet Error: A Range Is Improperly Used

PSS ID Number: Q127997 Article last modified on 10-22-1998

4.0 4.0a 4.0b

MACINTOSH

================================================================ ==

The information in this article applies to:

 == Microsoft Works for the Macintosh, versions 4.0, 4.0a, and 4.0b == 

= SYMPTOMS =

If you are in the Works Spreadsheet and try to use the Autosum button on a series of ranges of cells selected using the SHIFT key, you will receive the following error message:

A range is improperly used.

= CAUSE =

In the Spreadsheet, when you use the Autosum button and combine ranges with the SHIFT key, it results in an incorrect formula. For example:

=Sum(cell:cell+cell:cell).

= RESOLUTION =

To correct the formula, replace the “+” signs with commas so the formula reads similar to the following:

=Sum(cell:cell,cell:cell).

= MORE INFORMATION =

Steps to Reproduce Problem:


 * 1) In the Spreadsheet, select a destination cell for the formula.
 * 2) Click the Autosum button.
 * 3) Using your mouse, highlight and select a range of at least two cells.
 * 4) Press and hold down the SHIFT key and select at least one more range containing two or more cells.

The resulting formula will look similar to the following:

=Sum(B2:B4+C5:E5).

Additional query words: m_works adding apple mac plus sign summing problem equation ====================================================================== Version : 4.0 4.0a 4.0b Platform : MACINTOSH Issue type : kbprb ============================================================================= Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1998.