Absolute references ($) in Google Sheets
When you fill a formula, relative references move. Sometimes you need one to stay put, such as a tax rate or exchange rate stored in a single cell. Add a dollar sign to lock it: $B$1 never changes when copied.
You can also lock just one part. $B1 locks the column, B$1 locks the row. These mixed references are handy for multiplication tables and grids. Press F4 while editing a reference to cycle through the four options.
Syntax
=B4*$B$1
Example
=B4*$B$1
Every row multiplies its own amount by the single rate in B1.
Common mistakes
- Locking the wrong cell, or the amount instead of the rate.
- Using
$B1 when the row also needs to stay fixed. - Typing dollar signs in the middle of a name, like
B$1.
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