subject: Working With Cell Ranges In Excel 2007 [print this page] When defining a function, you may simply use the "=" sign in the Formula bar, followed by the function name and the range to which the function should apply,) Alternately, if you're using the Formula Wizard to construct a particular function, Excel will produce a dialogue box that enables you to add function arguments. If you need more assistance with the function, press the "Collapse Dialogue Box" at the end of the text box.
Given a text box, or the formula bar, you can simply type in the cell range or ranges you want to work with. You may also use the mouse or keyboard to select the cell range while the dialogue box is open. Excel will automatically include your cell selections in the Function Arguments dialogue box.
Sometimes, it's convenient to assign a name to a particular range of cells, rather than use the default Column/Row designations. To assign a name to a range of cells, select the range you want to work with. Choose Formulas > Name A Range. Excel will open the New Name dialogue box. Enter a name for your selected range in the Name text box. You can make corrections to the cell range if necessary. When you have finished defining and naming the range, select OK.
Naming a range will enable you to select a range of cells quickly. Once you define a name for a range, you can simply use the range's name in place of the range coordinates in functions. Assigning range names can help you or others understand the purpose of a function and speed the process of assigning function arguments.
If you've named a range but cannot remember what name you've assigned, click the insertion point where you want your named range to appear. Choose Formulas > Use In Formula. Excel will display a list of named ranges. Choose the range you want to use and Excel will insert it into the chosen location.
While it is probably best to keep range names short, a range name can be as many as 255 characters in length and must begin with a letter or the underscore character. Your range name can contain any character or symbol except a space. Use the underscore to fill in for spaces, if you want to use multiple-word names. Avoid using cell addresses and operator symbols (, +, -, *, /, &, etc.) because these characters have built-in meanings for Excel. Also avoid using built-in names like Print_Area, Sheet_Title, and function names.
Notes for editors: Claire Jarrett is the managing director of Computer Training Solutions in Bristol, Solihull and Bracknell. Computer Training Solutions offer MS Excel Courses call 0800 019 6882 for more details.
