Extend a pattern
AutoFill can continue a series such as January, February, March, or 1, 2, 3. Enter enough starting values for Excel to recognize the pattern, select them, and drag the fill handle across the cells you want to fill.
Copy formulas safely
When you copy a formula, relative references adjust to the new position. For example, copying =B2*C2 down one row changes it to =B3*C3. Use the dollar sign to lock a row or column when a reference must stay fixed.
Try it
Enter 1 and 2 in neighboring cells, select both, and drag the fill handle. Then copy a simple formula down and inspect how its cell references change.
Key takeaways
- AutoFill extends recognizable patterns.
- Relative cell references adjust when formulas move.
- A dollar sign can lock a row or column reference.