Quick change of reference type
To quickly change the reference type in a function argument from relative to absolute and vice versa, do the following:
-
Switch to cell editing mode in one of the following ways:
- Select a cell by double-clicking.
- Press
F2.
-
Place the cursor on the desired argument or select it. To convert all arguments in the formula, select the entire formula.
-
Press
F4the required number of times. Each click will sequentially convert the reference as specified in the table:
| Click number | A1 Style | R1C1 style |
|---|---|---|
| Before clicking | =A1 (relative reference) | =R[1]C[-1] (relative reference) |
| 1st click | =$A$1 (absolute reference, row and column are locked) | =R2C1 (absolute reference, row and column are locked) |
| 2nd click | =A$1 (mixed reference, row is locked) | =R2C[-1] (mixed reference, row is locked) |
| 3rd click | =$A1 (mixed reference, column is locked) | =R[1]C1 (mixed reference, column is locked) |
| 4th click | =A1 (relative reference, return to initial state, start of new cycle) | =R[1]C[-1] (relative reference, return to initial state, start of new cycle) |
tip
If F4 controls a device function by default (brightness, volume, and so forth), try holding down the Fn key before pressing F4.