What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
To make conditional formatting follow specific cells, set both the rule’s target range and its formula references correctly. Relative references move as the rule is evaluated across the range; dollar signs lock a row, a column, or both. The steps below show how to configure and check that behavior in Excel and Google Sheets.
How conditional formatting links a rule to cells
A conditional-formatting rule has two parts: the cells it applies to and the condition that determines whether those cells receive formatting. The target range controls where the rule can act. References in the formula control which values it checks for each target cell. Microsoft and Google both document formula-based conditional formatting and how references behave across a range: Microsoft’s Excel guidance and Google Sheets’ conditional-formatting help.
For example, if a rule applies to a block of cells and uses a relative reference, that reference shifts as the rule evaluates each cell. An absolute reference remains fixed. Mixed references lock only the row or column. The right choice depends on whether each cell should be checked independently, compared with one fixed control cell, or evaluated against a value in its row or column.
Choose the reference style that matches the rule
| Reference | What shifts across the target range | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
A1 |
Both row and column | Check each target cell relative to its own position. |
$A$1 |
Neither row nor column | Compare every target cell with one fixed control cell. |
$A1 |
Row only; column A stays fixed | Format rows based on a value in column A. |
A$1 |
Column only; row 1 stays fixed | Compare cells across columns with a header in row 1. |
These examples assume the formula is evaluated across a range. The formula’s starting reference should correspond to the range’s top-left cell. A Google Sheets product expert also describes formulas as relative to the apply-to range, but the official Excel and Sheets documentation linked above is the primary guidance; see the Google Sheets community explanation for additional context.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match#1 Best Overall
- EXCEL SHORTCUTS. ZERO SEARCHING. – Our bestselling reference mat puts an extensive collection of commonly used commands, formulas and helpful tricks directly beneath your fingertips so you can find answers fast, work smarter and stay in the flow.
- YOUR DESK. SMARTER. – Clearly organized sections for navigation, selection, formatting, data and functions make it easy to find the right Excel command exactly when you need it.
- LEARN, WORK & RESET – Built-in desk-exercise diagrams give you 10 quick ways to stretch, recharge and return to work feeling sharper.
- ROOM TO WORK & CREATE – The extended 31.5 x 11.8-inch Pixiecube desk mat fits a laptop or keyboard and mouse, while the soft 2 mm surface adds comfort and protects your desktop.
- BUILT FOR REAL-WORLD WORKDAYS – A rugged stitched edge helps prevent fraying, and the water-resistant, stain-resistant surface protects against scratches, spills and everyday wear—because smarter desks should work harder.
Set up a formula-based rule in Excel
- Select the cells to format, or create the rule and specify its target range in the rule pane.
- Choose the formula-based rule option, Use a formula to determine which cells to format, and enter the condition. Align the formula’s starting reference with the top-left cell of the target range.
- Use relative, absolute, or mixed references to decide which parts of the reference should move as the rule evaluates the range.
- Open the Conditional Formatting rule manager or task pane and check the cells the rule applies to. Make sure the target range and formula work together as intended.
Excel supports conditional formatting on selected or named ranges, Excel tables, and—in Excel for Windows—PivotTable reports, according to Microsoft’s documentation. Microsoft also notes that selecting cells can insert absolute references into a formula. If you expect a reference to move, inspect it and remove the dollar signs from the coordinate that should shift.
Set up a custom-formula rule in Google Sheets
- Select the cells to format.
- Choose Format > Conditional formatting.
- Under Format cells if, choose Custom formula is.
- Enter a formula with reference anchors chosen for the target range, set the formatting, and click Done.
For example, Google’s documented formula =$B1="Yes" formats a row based on the value in column B. The dollar sign fixes column B while the row number changes as the rule evaluates other rows. For duplicate values in A1:A100, Google gives =COUNTIF($A$1:$A$100,A1)>1: the comparison range stays fixed, while the cell being checked shifts. Both examples come from Google’s Sheets help.
Rank #2
- 【Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard And Mouse Combo】EDJO Full-sized wireless keyboard is ergonomically designed with Palm Rest and folding holder that can keep it at an optimum slope，prevent your wrists from hurting while long sessions of typing. Keyboard is also designed with anti-slide pads so it will stay in place when you're typing quickly. Note: The USB receiver is in the battery compartment of mouse, you can find it when open the mouse battery cover.
Google says custom formulas can refer directly to cells on the same sheet. To refer to a different sheet, its documentation specifies using INDIRECT. Google also states that when rules overlap, the first rule found true determines the cell or range’s format.
Fix rules that format the wrong cells
- Some intended cells are untouched: Check that the rule’s target or “Apply to” range includes them.
- The result shifts in the wrong direction: Make the formula’s starting reference correspond to the target range’s top-left cell, then lock only the row or column that should remain fixed.
- Another format appears instead: Check for rules with overlapping target ranges. In Google Sheets, the first rule found true determines the format.
- An Excel formula error prevents formatting: Microsoft says cells whose formula results are errors do not receive conditional formatting. Consider an
ISfunction orIFERRORexpression that returns a usable value. - A Sheets condition depends on another tab: Google documents
INDIRECTfor referencing a different sheet in a custom formula.
When a rule behaves unexpectedly, check its formula and target range as a pair. A correct condition cannot format cells outside its range, and a correctly selected range can still produce the wrong result if its references are anchored incorrectly.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- EXCEL CHEAT SHEET DESK PAD:This Excel shortcuts mouse pad is a reliable desk companion, showcasing key shortcuts for Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Windows. It includes practical information and shortcut keys to help you work more efficiently on your daily tasks.
- LARGE AND PRACTICAL SIZE: Measuring 27.6 x 11.8 inches (700x300x2mm), this Excel mouse pad serves as both a mouse pad and desk mat, offering generous space for your computer, keyboard, and mouse. Ideal for use in the office or at home.
- CLEARLY ORGANIZED AND EASY TO USE:Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Windows shortcut keys are grouped and organized for easy reference, making this desk pad a helpful tool for both beginners and experienced users.
- SMOOTH AND ACCURATE CONTROL:The smooth fabric top ensures accurate mouse movements, while the non-slip base keeps the pad securely in place, delivering a stable and comfortable user experience.
- LONG-LASTING AND HIGH-QUALITY DESIGN:This mouse pad features premium fade-resistant printing, ensuring that shortcut details remain clear and detailed over time. The reinforced stitched edges add durability for extended use.
Rank #4
- Smart Display Screen & Multi-function Knob: AULA F108 Pro wireless mechanical keyboard has built-in intelligent TFT color display screen, which can be used as an interactive interface for real-time updating and customization. The high-definition display and multi-function knobs are designed to make it easy to switch and update custom Gif images, volume, date and time, battery status, backlight and connection modes for greater ease of use(Note: You need to download the software under windows system and keep in wired mode to set the screen image/GIF, calibrate the date and time. The screen has a transparent protective film that can be torn off for use)
- Tri-mode Connection Mechanical Keyboard: The AULA F108 Pro gaming keyboard supports BT5.0, 2.4GHz wireless and USB-C wired connectivity which can save up to five devices. The BT5.0 mode allows for quick switching between pc,mac,laptop and tablets while the 2.4GHz wireless and USB-C wired mode with a polling rate of 1000Hz ensures highly competitive stability and responsiveness.The F108PRO pc gaming keyboard is compatible with Windows, Mac, IOS and Android operating systems, and you can easily switch systems with multifunctional knob(Note: In Linux systems, incompatible driver versions may cause abnormal F-zone functionality, which is a normal phenomenon. Please rest assured to use it)
- Hot-swappable Custom Keyboard: The F108 Pro wireless gaming keyboard comes with a hot-swappable base that is compatible with 3-pin or 5-pin switches. Without the soldering process, users can easily replace switches and keycaps to customize their keying experience (keycap/switch puller is included in the package). Equipped with pre-lubricated stabilizers and switches, the creamy keyboard bring smooth typing feeling and pleasant creamy mechanical sound, providing fast response for exciting games
- Advanced Five Layers Filling Structure: The mechanical gaming keyboard features an advanced structure, extended integrated silicone pad, and PCB single key slotting, better optimizes resilience and stability, making the hand feel softer and more elastic. Five layers of filling silencer fills the gap between the PCB, the positioning plate and the shaft, effectively counteracting the cavity noise sound of the shaft hitting the positioning plate, ensuring the purest sound and soft and smooth typing experience every time you press the key
- 104 Keys Full Size Keyboard: The F108 Pro computer keyboard features a newly upgraded 100% full-size layout with arrow keys, function keys, and numeric zones for a more comfortable and productive office. The two-colour injection-moulded PBT keycaps are more durable without fading, sweat-proof, and softer to the touch. With the south-facing LEDs, the pc keyboard backlight clearly illuminates each key through the font, allowing you to operate accurately in the dark. Built-in 8000mAh high-capacity battery, the creamy keyboard with number pad is suitable for long-time work or high-intensity gaming
Rank #3
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the nano USB receiver into your computer and use the keyboard instantly. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Stainless Steel Ultra Slim Full Size Keyboard with Numeric Keypad for Computer/Desktop/PC/Laptop/Surface/Smart TV and Windows 10/8/ 7 Built in Rechargeable Battery
- Ergonomic design: Stainless steel material gives heavy duty feeling, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- 6-Month Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium battery with an industry-high capacity lasts for 6 months with single charge (based on 2 hours non-stop use per day).
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.9 X 4.9 X 0.6in) and light weight (14.9oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Stainless 2.4G Wireless Keyboard, nano USB receiver, USB charging cable, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
