Identifying and Fixing Circular References
The formula D1+D2+D3 lives in cell D3 and breaks because it’s trying to calculate itself. By moving the formula to another cell, you can fix the problem. Cut the formula with Ctrl+X, select a different cell, and paste it with Ctrl+V. Millions have faced the "circular reference" message due to the formula calculating itself. Another mistake involves using a self-referencing function like SUM(A3:F3) in cell F3. Begin with the cell you just worked on; it may refer to itself. Cell A3 could have (A1+A2)/A3, and A1+1 in A1 also leads to errors. Look for indirect references; a formula in A1 might rely on B1, which refers back to A1. If the error eludes you, go to FORMULAS, ERROR CHECKING, CIRCULAR REFERENCES, and choose the first cell listed. Review this formula. If uncertain, select the next cell in the submenu to correct all circular references. The status bar shows CIRCULAR REFERENCES with one’s address. Using tracer arrows by choosing FORMULAS, then TRACE PRECEDENTS or DEPENDENTS helps locate cells in a circular reference. When first detected, Excel warns about a circular reference; acknowledge the warning. Excel then shows either zero or the last value calculated. To deal with a cell suspected of having a circular reference showing no zero, enable iterative calculation. This has three potential outcomes: convergence, divergence, or alternating values. Enable this feature under FILE > OPTIONS > FORMULAS or EXCEL > PREFERENCES > CALCULATION for Mac. Adjust iterations in the MAXIMUM ITERATIONS box and the smallest change necessary for iteration in the MAXIMUM CHANGE box.
Managing References in Excel
How do I remove referencing in Excel?
To delete a reference, choose Menu > Delete Reference. When editing a reference, all its instances in your formulas will update. Click your formula’s cell to see its summary. Choose the reference to edit, then select EDIT REFERENCE to adjust its name or range. Right-click in your sheet and select MANAGE REFERENCES to access the sheet reference manager, displaying all cross sheet and cell link references. Within, switch to the cell link references manager or search for specific references. Standardize reference names for consistency. To filter, open the ALL REFERENCES list. Create new references using + CREATE, useful for new formulas. Over any reference listed, hover to display the Menu icon, then choose EDIT Reference for adjustments. To duplicate, select MENU > DUPLICATE REFERENCE; the new name includes "Copy of_original."
Searching for Hidden Circular References
How do I find hidden circular references in Excel?
To uncover circular references, use the Error Checking tool on the Formulas tab. Excel’s built-in tool spots these and other errors. Click the Error Checking drop-down in the Formula Auditing group and choose "Circular References." Excel’s Trace Precedents tool shows all cells upon which your selected cell depends. To resolve circular references, consider breaking the cycle or using alternative formulas. Circular reference creation is often an accidental result of rapid range selection in formulas. Before entering formulas, ensure their interaction logic across cells is clear. Functions like INDIRECT or OFFSET may inadvertently lead to circular references if not used carefully. To manage large or complex workbooks, it’s vital to monitor for circular references. Though generally avoided, some calculations might require iterative solutions, enabling Iterative Calculations in Excel’s settings.
Deactivating the Circular Reference Notification
How do I remove a circular reference notification?
In "Formulas" under "Calculation options," find "Iterative Calculation" checked. Uncheck it, then click "OK" to clear the Circular Reference notification.