How to define a name for a range of cells in Microsoft Excel

In Microsoft Excel, a formula can include a range of cells for adding values together, finding an average, and other calculations. For example, if you wanted to include cells D2 through D13 in a formula, you would denote that using the text "D2:D13" in the parentheses for the formula.

An alternative option is to define a name for the range of cells, and then use that name in the formula instead. Using a defined name in a formula can be easier to type and easier to remember, especially if the same range of cells is used in multiple formulas. It can also prevent a formula from changing when copied from one cell to another.

• Prevent a spreadsheet formula from changing when copying.

Define a name for a range of cells

To define a name for a range of cells in Microsoft Excel, follow the steps below.

1. In the Excel spreadsheet, select the desired range of cells.

• How to select one or more cells in a spreadsheet program.

2. Right-click the selected cells and select Define Name in the pop-up menu.
3. In the New Name window, enter a name for the selected cells in the Name field and click OK.