Copy Values Not Formula

Introduction to Copying Values Not Formula

When working with spreadsheets, it’s common to copy and paste data from one cell to another. However, by default, most spreadsheet software will copy the formula along with the data, which can lead to unexpected results. In this article, we’ll explore how to copy values not formula in various spreadsheet applications, including Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc.

Understanding the Difference Between Values and Formulas

Before diving into the copying process, it’s essential to understand the difference between values and formulas. Values refer to the actual data or numbers displayed in a cell, whereas formulas are the equations or functions used to calculate those values. When you copy a cell containing a formula, the formula is copied along with the value, which can cause issues if the formula references other cells or ranges.

Copying Values Not Formula in Microsoft Excel

To copy values not formula in Microsoft Excel, follow these steps:

• Select the cell or range of cells you want to copy.
• Right-click on the selected cell or range and choose Copy (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C).
• Go to the cell or range where you want to paste the values.
• Right-click on the cell or range and choose Paste Special (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + V).
• In the Paste Special dialog box, select Values and click OK.

Alternatively, you can use the Paste Values shortcut by pressing Ctrl + Alt + V and then pressing V to paste only the values.

Copying Values Not Formula in Google Sheets

In Google Sheets, you can copy values not formula by following these steps:

• Select the cell or range of cells you want to copy.
• Right-click on the selected cell or range and choose Copy (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C).
• Go to the cell or range where you want to paste the values.
• Right-click on the cell or range and choose Paste special (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + V).
• In the Paste special menu, select Values only.

Copying Values Not Formula in LibreOffice Calc

To copy values not formula in LibreOffice Calc, follow these steps:

• Select the cell or range of cells you want to copy.
• Right-click on the selected cell or range and choose Copy (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C).
• Go to the cell or range where you want to paste the values.
• Right-click on the cell or range and choose Paste Special (or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + V).
• In the Paste Special dialog box, select Values and click OK.

💡 Note: When copying values not formula, make sure to select the correct paste option to avoid pasting formulas or formatting.

Common Scenarios Where Copying Values Not Formula is Necessary

There are several scenarios where copying values not formula is necessary:

• Archiving data: When archiving data, you may want to copy the values only to preserve the historical data without formulas.
• Creating reports: When creating reports, you may want to copy values only to display the actual data without formulas or calculations.
• Sharing data: When sharing data with others, you may want to copy values only to ensure that the recipient receives the actual data without formulas or calculations.

Application	Copy Values Not Formula Method
Microsoft Excel	Use Paste Special and select Values
Google Sheets	Use Paste special and select Values only
LibreOffice Calc	Use Paste Special and select Values

In summary, copying values not formula is an essential skill when working with spreadsheets. By understanding the difference between values and formulas and using the correct paste options, you can ensure that you copy only the values you need, without formulas or calculations. This can help you to preserve historical data, create accurate reports, and share data with others without compromising the integrity of your spreadsheet.