Formula bar in Excel: how to show, hide, expand or collapse
This tutorial explains the Excel formula bar, how to restore it if missing, and how to adjust its size. We'll cover various Excel versions.
Many of our tutorials delve into Excel functions and formulas, but beginners should start with the basics, and the formula bar is essential.
- What is the Excel formula bar?
- How to display the formula bar
- How to hide the formula bar
- How to resize the formula bar
What is the Excel Formula Bar?
The Excel formula bar is a toolbar at the top of the worksheet window, indicated by the fx symbol. It's used to enter and edit formulas. It's especially useful for viewing long formulas without obscuring cell contents. Activating the formula bar is as simple as typing an equals sign (=) in a cell or clicking within the bar itself.
Restoring a Missing Formula Bar
The formula bar aids in reviewing and editing formulas. If it's missing, it's likely been accidentally disabled. Here's how to restore it:
Excel 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019: Go to the View tab, then the Show group, and check the Formula Bar option.
Excel 2007: The Formula Bar option is found on the View tab within the Show/Hide group.
Excel 2003 and XP: Navigate to Tools > Options, select the View tab, and check the Formula Bar checkbox under the Show section.
Alternative Method (All Versions):
- Click File (or the Office button in older versions).
- Select Options.
- Choose Advanced from the left pane.
- Scroll to the Display section and check Show Formula Bar.
Hiding the Formula Bar
To maximize worksheet space, hide the formula bar by unchecking the Formula Bar option in Excel Options (as shown above) or on the ribbon (View tab > Show group).
Resizing the Formula Bar
For long formulas, expand the formula bar by:
- Hovering near its bottom until an up-and-down arrow appears.
- Clicking and dragging the arrow downwards to increase its height.
Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl Shift U to expand and collapse the formula bar.
Conclusion
This guide covers managing the Excel formula bar. Our next article will discuss more advanced formula evaluation and debugging. Thanks for reading!
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