Absolute references in Excel are a type of cell reference that remains fixed or "locked" when you copy a formula to another cell. Unlike relative references, which adjust automatically based on their new location, absolute references always point to the same specific cell.
To create an absolute reference, you "lock" the cell reference by putting a dollar sign ($) before both the column letter and the row number. This tells Excel not to change that part of the reference when the formula is copied or filled to other cells.
For example, as the reference states, when you copy the formula =$A$2+$B$2 from cell C2 to cell D2, the formula in D2 stays exactly the same: =$A$2+$B$2. Both $A$2 and $B$2 are absolute references, so they continue to refer to cells A2 and B2 regardless of where the formula is moved.
Why Use Absolute References?
Absolute references are crucial when you need a formula to always refer back to a specific cell, such as a tax rate, a fixed discount percentage, or a base value, even when the formula is applied across a range of cells.
Here are some common scenarios:
- Calculating percentages: Applying a percentage from a single cell to multiple values.
- Using constants: Referencing a constant value (like a conversion factor) that is stored in one cell.
- Comparing values: Always comparing a range of values against a specific benchmark cell.
How to Create an Absolute Reference
As mentioned, you add a $ before the column letter and the row number.
- To make a reference absolute: Put
$before the column and$before the row (e.g.,$A$1). - Using the F4 key: A quick way to cycle through reference types (relative, absolute, mixed) is to select the cell reference in the formula bar and press the
F4key.
Comparing Reference Types
Understanding the difference between reference types is key:
| Reference Type | Example | How it Behaves When Copied | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relative | A1 |
Adjusts based on new position | Standard calculations across rows/columns |
| Absolute | $A$1 |
Stays fixed | Always referencing a specific cell |
| Mixed (Column) | $A1 |
Column stays fixed, row adjusts | Copying across columns but staying in the same row |
| Mixed (Row) | A$1 |
Row stays fixed, column adjusts | Copying down rows but staying in the same column |
By using absolute references ($A$1), you ensure that a formula maintains its link to a specific cell, providing consistency and accuracy when copying formulas throughout your spreadsheet.
