Microsoft KB Archive/25908

Err Msg: Cannot Change Part of an Array or Illegal Operation PSS ID Number: Q25908 Article last modified on 06-06-1991 PSS database name: M_eXceL

1.00 1.03 1.04 1.06 1.50 2.20 3.00

MACINTOSH

Summary:

The error message “Cannot change part of an array” occurs when you attempt to change only a portion of a group of cells in which an array formula resides. In Microsoft Excel versions 1.50 and earlier, the error message is “Illegal Array Operation.”

To cancel the error message, click the “X” in the formula bar.

To change just this cell, the array formula must be removed, as follows:


 * 1) Hold the SHIFT and COMMAND keys and double-click the cell to select all cells in the array. (In versions 1.50 and earlier, just double-click the cell.)
 * 2) From the Edit menu, choose Copy.
 * 3) From the Edit menu, choose Paste Special.
 * 4) Select Values and click OK.

You can now change individual cells in this range.

For more information about array formulas, see pages 276-281 in the “Microsoft Excel User’s Guide” version 3.0 manual. If you are using Excel 2.20, see pages 10-23 in the “Microsoft Excel Reference” version 2.2 manual.

Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1991.