Introduction to Microsoft Excel
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Data Entry and Formatting
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Formulas and Basic Functions
0/4
Logical Functions
0/3
Date, Time, and Lookup Functions
0/4
Data Management Tools
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Excel Tables and Pivot Tables
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Charts and Data Visualization
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Advanced Excel Features
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Automation, Dashboards, and Projects
Cell References
Cell references tell Excel where to find data used in formulas. When formulas are copied to other cells, Excel can automatically adjust the references based on the type of reference used.
Types of Cell References
| Reference Type | Example | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Relative | A1 | Changes row and column when copied. |
| Absolute | $A$1 | Row and column remain fixed. |
| Mixed | F$1 or $F1 | Either row or column remains fixed. |
Mixed Reference Example

Assume the price of one book is stored in cell F1 and the quantity of books is stored in column B.
| Name | Books Qty | Total Price |
|---|---|---|
| Amit Sharma | 2 | =B2*F$1 |
Book Price (F1) = 335
Formula:
=B2*F$1
Result:
=2*335 =670
Why F$1?
The row number (1) is locked using $, so when the formula is copied down, Excel always uses the Book Price from row 1.
The row number (1) is locked using $, so when the formula is copied down, Excel always uses the Book Price from row 1.
Shortcut Key
| Shortcut | Purpose |
|---|---|
| F4 | Switch between Relative, Absolute and Mixed References. |
