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Absolute and Relative References in Google Sheets

  • Jun 5
  • 1 min read

Google Sheets has two types of references, Absolute References and Relative References.


A relative cell reference is the default and adjusts as formulas are copied.

For example, A1


An absolute cell reference ensures that the formula always refers to the same cell, even when it's copied and pasted or copied using the Autofill feature.


To make an absolute reference, add $ symbols.

For example, $A$1


There are different types of absolute references, as sometimes you may want to lock the column only or the cell only.


Absolute column and row reference - $A$1

The column and row remain constant, regardless of where the formula is pasted.


Absolute column reference - $A1

The column remains absolute, regardless of where the formula is pasted, but the row updates relatively.


Absolute row reference - A$1

The row remains absolute, regardless of where the formula is pasted, but the column updates relatively.


Example of absolute and relative references

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