You are learning Cell Referencing in MS Excel
How to link cell references between different workbooks?
There are two main ways to link cell references between different workbooks in Excel:
Method 1: Using Paste Link
1. Open both workbooks: Ensure you have both the source workbook (containing the data you want to link) and the destination workbook (where you want the linked data to appear) open.
2. Select the cells in the source workbook: Highlight the cell(s) in the source workbook that contain the data you want to link.
3. Copy the cells: Right-click on the selected cells and choose "Copy" or press Ctrl+C.
4. Go to the destination workbook: Switch to the destination workbook where you want the linked data to be displayed.
5. Select the destination cell: Click on the cell in the destination sheet where you want the linked information to appear.
6. Paste Link: Right-click on the selected cell and choose "Paste Link" or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+V.
Method 2: Using Formulas with Workbook References
1. Open both workbooks: Similar to method 1, have both the source and destination workbooks open.
2. Switch to the destination workbook: Click on the destination sheet where you want to enter the formula.
3. Enter the formula: In the desired cell, type the equal sign (=) to begin your formula.
4. Navigate to the source workbook: Switch to the source workbook by clicking on its tab at the bottom of the window.
5. Select the linked cell: Click on the cell in the source workbook that contains the data you want to reference.
6. Complete the formula: Once you've selected the cell in the source workbook, Excel will automatically include the workbook name and cell reference in the formula bar (e.g., '[SourceWorkbook.xlsx]Sheet1!A1').
7. Switch back and press Enter: Click back on the destination workbook and press Enter to complete the formula. The linked data will appear in the destination cell.
Important Notes:
* Both methods establish a link between the workbooks. Any changes made to the source data will be reflected in the destination workbook.
* When using formulas, ensure the file paths for the source workbook are accurate, especially if you move the workbooks around.
* You can manage and edit links within the destination workbook using the "Edit Links" option under the "Data" tab.