What is the primary function of the F4 key in MS Excel when editing a cell reference in a formula?

The correct answer is Toggles between absolute and relative references.

Key Points

• In MS Excel, the F4 key is primarily used to toggle between different types of cell references when editing a formula.
• When you press F4 after selecting a cell reference in a formula, it changes the reference type between:
  • Relative reference (e.g., A1)
  • Absolute reference (e.g., $A$1)
  • Mixed reference (e.g., A$1 or $A1)
• This functionality is useful for ensuring that cell references behave as intended when formulas are copied to different locations in the worksheet.

Additional Information

• The F4 key can also be used to repeat the last action in some contexts, but its primary role in formula editing is to manage cell references.
• Understanding how to use absolute, relative, and mixed references can help you create more flexible and accurate formulas in Excel.
• Other keys that assist with formula editing include F2 (to edit the active cell) and Enter (to complete the formula).
• Efficient use of these keys can significantly enhance your productivity when working with complex spreadsheets.