Understanding Excel formulas - this is how you activate the formula view

Excel is a powerful tool that can help you manage and analyze data in many areas of life and the professional world. Although Excel offers many functions, it can sometimes be challenging to keep track of formulas, especially when multiple calculations are present in a file. In this tutorial, we focus on how you can use the formula view in Excel to identify errors more quickly and monitor formulas more effectively.

Key Insights

• The formula view in Excel can be activated by a keyboard shortcut.
• In formula audit mode, you will see all the formulas used instead of the results.
• There are two ways to activate formula audit mode: via a keyboard shortcut or through the menu.
• The mode is helpful in quickly finding errors in formulas.

Step-by-Step Guide

To effectively work with Excel and activate the formula view, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Access Formula View

To activate the formula view in Excel, you need to use a special keyboard shortcut. Press the Ctrl and Shift keys simultaneously, followed by the apostrophe ('), this is an easy, quick method to gain immediate insight into the formulas used in your Excel table.

Step 2: What Happens in the Formula View?

After activating the formula view, each cell containing a formula will display the actual formula instead of the result. You can now see the calculations being made and where errors may occur. This makes it easy to identify whether the formulas are correct or need adjustment.

Step 3: Return to Normal View

If you want to return your Excel area to the standard view, simply press the same keyboard shortcut again: Ctrl + Shift + '. This will replace the formulas with the results, allowing you to regain clarity in your worksheet.

Step 4: Alternative Access Method

If you do not wish to use the keyboard shortcut, there is an alternative way to activate the formula view. Click on the menu bar where you can search for "Formula Auditing Mode." Type in this term and click on the corresponding result to access the same view.

Step 5: Switching and Adjusting Views

If you wish to change the view again, simply click on "Formula Audit Mode" once more to return to the familiar view. This way, you can always maintain control over your data and flexibly switch between views.

Summary – Understanding Excel Formulas Efficiently

This guide has shown you how to activate and use the formula view in Excel to better keep track of the formulas in your tables and quickly identify potential errors. By switching between the normal view and the formula view, you can efficiently manage your calculations and ensure the reliability of your data.