How to Drag Formula without Changing in Google Sheets

Google Sheets and Excel are powerful spreadsheet platforms that allow users to create and manipulate data with ease. One common challenge when working with formulas in these platforms is copying them without changing the cell references. In this article, we will explore various methods to copy formulas in Google Sheets while preserving the original cell references.

Understanding Relative and Absolute Cell References

Before we dive into the methods, it’s essential to understand the concept of relative and absolute cell references. When you create a formula in Google Sheets, it often references other cells for calculations. By default, these references are relative, meaning they adjust automatically when copied to different cells.

For example, if you have a formula in cell A2 that references cell B2 (=B2*2), when you copy the formula to cell A3, it will automatically update the reference to B3 (=B3*2). This behavior is useful in many cases, but sometimes you may want to copy the formula exactly as it is, without changing the cell references.

Method 1: Double-Click and Copy-Paste

One straightforward method to copy a formula without changing the cell references is by double-clicking on the cell and copying its contents. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Double-click on the cell containing the formula to enter the editing mode.
2. Instead of single-clicking on the cell, highlight the formula by selecting its contents.
3. Press “Ctrl + C” to copy the highlighted content.
4. Select the cell where you want to paste the formula and press “Ctrl + V” to paste it.

This method allows you to copy a single cell along with its formula and references without any changes. If you want to move the cell instead of copying it, you can use the “Ctrl + X” (Cut) command.

Method 2: Use Absolute or Mixed Cell References

Another way to copy formulas without changing cell references is by using absolute or mixed cell references. Absolute references lock the cell’s contents, making it static regardless of where you move the formula.

To create an absolute reference, you need to add a dollar sign ($) before the column letter or row number in the formula. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Select the cell containing the formula you want to copy.
2. Edit the formula and add a dollar sign ($) before the column letter or row number in the references you want to keep fixed.
3. Copy the formula and paste it into the desired cells. The references will remain unchanged.

You can also use mixed cell references to lock an entire column or row. To create a mixed reference, add a dollar sign before the column letter or row number you want to fix. For example, if you want to lock the column but allow the row to change, you would use $A1. If you want to lock the row but allow the column to change, you would use A$1.

Method 3: Use a Text Editor

If you need to copy or move multiple formulas at once, using a text editor can be a convenient option. This method allows you to preserve the exact formulas with their references. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Enter the formula view mode by pressing “Ctrl + `” (backtick/grave accent).
2. Using the “Ctrl” key on your keyboard, select every cell with formulas you want to move or copy.
3. Copy or cut the selected cells.
4. Open a text editor app like Google Docs, Notepad, or TextEdit.
5. Paste the formulas into the text editor and make sure to maintain the exact formatting.
6. Copy the formulas from the text editor.
7. Go back to your Google Sheet and select the cell where you want to paste the formulas.
8. Paste the copied content from the text editor.
9. Remove the formula view mode in Google Sheets by pressing “Ctrl + `” (backtick/grave accent).

Using a text editor allows you to copy and preserve the original formulas, including their references. Just make sure to add a space after each formula’s “=” sign in the text editor before pasting it back into Google Sheets.

Method 4: Find and Replace Feature

The Find and Replace feature in Google Sheets can be a helpful tool when you want to copy a range of formulas without changing their references. Here’s how you can use it:

1. In your Google Sheet, press “Ctrl + H” or click “Edit” and select “Find and Replace.”
2. In the “Find” field, type “=”.
3. In the “Replace with” field, type “”.
4. Check the box that says “Also search within formulas” to ensure all formulas are included.
5. Click “Replace All” and then click “Done.”
6. Select the cells with the formulas you want to copy and press “Ctrl + C” to copy them.
7. Go to the destination cells and press “Ctrl + V” to paste the formulas.
8. To revert the formulas back to normal, repeat steps 1-5, replacing “” with “=”.

Using the Find and Replace feature allows you to temporarily change the “=” sign in the formulas to “”. This prevents Google Sheets from changing the references when you copy the formulas. Once you have pasted the formulas, you can revert them back to normal by replacing “” with “=”.

Summary

Copying formulas in Google Sheets without changing cell references is a common requirement for many users. By understanding the concepts of relative and absolute cell references, you can choose the most suitable method for your needs. Whether it’s double-clicking and copy-pasting, using absolute or mixed cell references, employing a text editor, or utilizing the Find and Replace feature, these methods provide you with the flexibility to copy formulas while preserving their references. Experiment with these techniques to find the one that works best for your specific spreadsheet requirements.

Remember, mastering these techniques will empower you to efficiently work with formulas in Google Sheets, saving you time and effort in your data analysis and calculations.

Note: Some pages on this site may include an affiliate link. This does not affect our editorial in any way.