Module 1 · Lesson 4

Absolute and mixed references

Keep assumptions fixed while copying formulas across a model.

Some references should not move

A copied formula may need to reuse one assumption. Dollar signs lock the part of the reference that must stay fixed.

=B2*$F$2

Choose the smallest lock you need

Use an absolute reference when one cell must never move. Mixed references are useful in tables copied both across columns and down rows.

  • $F$2 locks row and column.
  • F$2 locks row 2.
  • $F2 locks column F.

Key takeaway: $F$2 locks both the column and row; F$2 locks only the row; $F2 locks only the column.