Works: Sorting/Copying Formula Changes Range Reference (78940)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Works for MS-DOS
  • Microsoft Works 2.0
  • Microsoft Works 3.0
  • Microsoft Works 4.5
  • Microsoft Works 4.5a
  • Microsoft Works for Windows 95, version 4.0
  • Microsoft Works for Windows 95, version 4.0 4.0a
This article was previously published under Q78940

SUMMARY

Microsoft Works wraps any relative references used in a formula if a copy or sort operation would cause the reference to be outside the spreadsheet area. This behavior can produce unexpected results in formulas, such as SUM(), that interpret range references as arguments.

MORE INFORMATION

Use the following example for more information:

  1. Type the formula =SUM(B1:B2) in cell B3. "B1:B2" is a relative reference. You are telling Works to display in cell B3 the sum of the two cells directly above the cell containing the formula.
  2. Copy the formula into cell B2. You are now telling Works to display in cell B2 the sum of the two cells directly above B2. Because there is only one cell (B1) above B2, Works wraps the range reference. Works changes the formula to =SUM(B1:B4096) for Works for DOS, version 2.0 and 3.0, in Works for Windows version 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 the formula would change to =SUM(B1:B16384). Note that the range reference "B1:B4096" or "B1:B16384" causes Works to sum all cells in column B.
Any operation that moves formulas, such as sorting, can cause the same result.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/15/2004
Keywords:kbinfo KB78940
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