Microsoft KB Archive/77513

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Creating a Data Series Replaces Formatting in Excel

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The information in this article applies to:


 * Microsoft Excel for Windows, versions 2.x, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0
 * Microsoft Excel for OS/2 versions 2.x, 3.0

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SUMMARY
In Microsoft Excel, if you create a series of numbers or dates using the Series dialog box, the cell pattern or shading in the first cell is copied down the length of the series. This formatting replaces any existing formatting throughout the series.

This behavior is by design. To avoid losing the formatting of your cells when you create a series, do the following:


 * 1) Create the data series in another area on your worksheet.
 * 2) Select the data series and choose Copy from the Edit menu.
 * 3) Select the area on the worksheet where you want the series to appear, and choose Paste Special. Under Paste, select the Values option. Choose OK.

The series is pasted onto the worksheet without affecting the formatting of the cells.

To restore the original formatting when the above behavior occurs, you must reformat the affected cells

Note: In Microsoft Excel version 5.0, to use the Series dialog box, choose Fill from the Edit menu, and then choose Series. To use the Series dialog box in earlier versions of Microsoft Excel, choose Series from the Data menu.