How to Keep Track of Changes in Excel 2003

If several people are working on the same Excel document, it helps to keep tabs on what has been changed and by whom. Tracking changes in Excel is simple. Learn how to do it in a few short steps.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Excel 2003

Instructions

1. Open Excel from the Start menu on your toolbar.

2. Open the file for which you'd like to track changes.

3. Go to Tools > Track Changes.

4. If you want to see the changes while you are editing, select "Highlight Changes." Then select the boxes labeled "Track Changes While Editing" and "Highlight Changes on Screen." When making a lot of changes, you might not want this option on because it can be distracting.

5. Decide who gets to make changes on your worksheet. Select the "Who" tab and choose the users who can make changes. If you choose "Everyone," your file will be shared on the network.

6. Select the "When" option to decide when changes are tracked. The most popular is option is "All."

7. Click "OK" to save your options.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot locate your Excel icon, use the Find function in your Start menu. Search for files or folders and type in Excel.

• Remember that turning on the Track Changes function creates a shared worksheet, which means that users on your network can open the file simultaneously and make changes. You will be able to see which user made which changes.

• If you forget to save your files after editing, your changes will be lost.