Using AutoFill

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Autofill roman numerals

Autofill Counties

Autofill Formula

Go To – Fill in Blanks

Go To – Delete Blanks

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AutoFill is a feature that quickly creates copies of a cell based on that cell’s contents. If the cell contains a formula, the formula is repeated with relative references. If the cell contains a date, AutoFill creates a list with that date as the starting point.

To use AutoFill, simply select the AutoFill handle and drag to fill the contents of consecutive rows or columns. The AutoFill handle is present for the active cell. It is a small square at the bottom right corner of the cell.

You can only fill in one direction at a time.

Use the following procedure to copy a formula using the AutoFill handle. This example uses the formula in the “# Left to reorder” column in the Inventory sample worksheet.

1. Click on the cell with the formula you want to copy. Excel displays a handle around the cell.

2. Drag the handle at the bottom right corner of the cell to the end of the range of cells where you want to copy the formula.

3. Release the mouse button at the end of the range. Excel displays a menu to help determine you AutoFill options. For this example, we want to Copy Cells.

Use the following procedure to create a list using AutoFill. This example creates new columns in the Budget worksheet to cover the second six months.

1. Create a new column heading with the text “July” in cell J4.
2. Click on that cell to make it active. Excel displays a handle around the cell.

3. Drag the handle across the columns. Excel displays a screen tip showing what AutoFill will place in those cells.

4. Release the mouse button at the end of the range. Excel displays a menu to help determine you AutoFill options. For this example, you can choose either Fill Series or Fill Months.