Using Absolute and Relative References

To enter a relative reference:

1. Click in the cell in which you want to enter a relative reference to another cell.
2. Type the name of the cell you want to reference: type the letter corresponding to the cell column and the number corresponding the cell row.
3. For relative references, do not use the $ symbol.

To enter an absolute reference:

1. Click in the cell in which you want to enter an absolute reference to another cell.
2. Type the name of the cell you want to reference: type a $ then the letter corresponding to the cell column and another $ then the number corresponding the cell row.
3. For absolute references, you must use the $ symbol.

Watch as a formula with a relative reference is copied and pasted into a new cell. Notice that the formula has adjusted to the new location and now references a new set of cells relative to the original. Next, watch as a formula with an absolute reference is copied and then pasted. Notice that the cells referenced remain constant in the new location.