What is the difference between Relative and Absolute Cell References?
Depending on the task you want to perform in Excel, you can use either relative cell references, which are references to cells relative to the position of the formula, or absolute references, which are cell references that always refer to cells in a specific location. If a dollar sign precedes the letter and/or number, such as $A$1, the column and/or row reference is absolute. Relative references automatically adjust when you copy them, and absolute references do not. To absolute a cell, create the formula in the normal way, selecting the cells to include. Press [F4] whilst selecting the cell that is to be absolute. An absolute reference appears, e.g. $A$1. The [F4] key offers four options if pressed repeatedly, A$1, $A1, A1, $A$1. The $ symbol means fix, so that any part of the cell reference can be made absolute. Complete the formula as normal.
