In MS Excel, how do I apply a function to an entire column?

Question

I tried highlighting the entire column and entering my function but it only applied my function to A1, not all of column A. What am I doing wrong? Please help me before I kick my computer.

Answer 1

Enter your function in A1, then make sure cell A1 is highlighted, and grab the "fill handle" which is in the lower right corner of any highlighted cell or cells, then simply drag that "fill handle" down or across to any cells to which you want it applied, that's all.

Answer 2

I've done this and found the same problem - it wasn't doing what I expected.

If you want the same function with all its appropriate relative calculations, you need to enter, copy and then paste. Enter it in one cell (at the top of the column). Hit Ctrl-c to copy. Then select the cells you want to copy to. Hit Ctrl-p to paste.

A caveat: Be aware that this copy will change any relative references in the formula. To prevent this, use a $ (dollar sign) before the column/row you don't want to change.

Answer 3

Try inputting a $ in front of the A1 in formula this will apply the formula to the entire column. Inserting it in front of the 1 will aply it to the entire row.

Answer 4

When you copy the cell containg the function, then while holding down the left mouse, drag down the column to the end of your data. All the cells will become highlighted. Then click "Paste".

Answer 5

Select the cell or range that contains the formula or formulas you want to copy.
Drag the fill handle in the direction you want to copy the formula(s).
To select a specific fill option, click the Auto Fill Options button, and then select the option you want to apply to the selected range.
P.S. Make sure the fill handle is visible it looks like a small black square in the lower-right corner of a selected cell or cell range.
This is referred to as Auto Fill instead of using the Copy Paste option

Answer 6

Hilight the letter of the column you want to attach a formula to and drag the hilite down