Cannot Evaluate 3-D References Using F9 Key (116116)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel for Windows 95 7.0a
  • Microsoft Excel for Windows 5.0c
This article was previously published under Q116116

SUMMARY

In Microsoft Excel, if you attempt to evaluate part of a formula by pressing the F9 key, you will receive a #REF! error if a 3-D reference is contained within the evaluated section. Microsoft Excel cannot evaluate 3-D references in this way.

MORE INFORMATION

Microsoft Excel allows you to evaluate part of a formula in order to see how that part of the formula is handled when the formula is entered. To see how this feature of Microsoft Excel works, do the following:

  1. In a new worksheet, enter the following values:

    A1: 1 B1: =SUM(A1:A3)
    A2: 2
    A3: 3

  2. Select cell B1.
  3. In the formula bar, select A1:A3.
  4. Press the F9 key.
Note that the "A1:A3" disappears and is replaced by "{1;2;3}". This indicates that the range A1:A3 is evaluated to the array of values 1, 2, and 3. (To return to editing mode, press the ESC key.)
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:8/15/2003
Keywords:KB116116
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