How do I Activate the Range Finder to Verify a Formula in a Cell in Excel 2007?

Use the mouse to activate the range finder in Excel 2007.

When you create a formula in Excel, you can verify the formula by checking the cells involved. This is helpful when you have a formula that is not functioning properly. The range finder can help you quickly see the cells in your formula and locate potential problems. The range finder can be quickly activated and deactivated by using your mouse. The colors included in the range finder help you visually locate the different cells in your formula.

Instructions

1. Open Excel 2007 and locate a workbook that contains formulas. Select the "Office" button and click "Open." Browse your computer and locate your workbook. Click on the workbook and select "Open." The workbook opens.

2. Locate the spreadsheet that contains your formulas. Click on a cell that contains formulas. Activate the range finder by double-clicking on the cell. Notice how Excel highlights the corresponding cells in the formula in different colors. This helps you locate and check different cells in your formula. Locate any problems while you are using the range finder. Press "Enter" to turn the range finder off.

3. Adjust any problem cells by clicking on the problem cells and changing the value or cell reference. You should see your formula update automatically since formulas make your spreadsheet dynamic.

References

• Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals: Use Range Finder to Troubleshoot Formulae