Cell References in Excel: Relative and Absolute

Links Verified: March 19, 2026

Cell references in Excel explain why formulas change when copied and how to keep an important value fixed when needed.

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Relative References

A relative reference changes when you copy a formula to another row or column.

Absolute References

An absolute reference stays fixed. In Excel, dollar signs lock the reference, like $B$2.

Try It

1. Enter several amounts in one column.
2. Enter a total in one cell.
3. Create a percent formula using the total cell.
4. Copy the formula down and compare the results.

Next step: Continue to Common Excel Functions for Beginners.