Excel Terminology

Front

Cell

Back

A user enters data into a cell, which is the intersection of a column and row.

Front

Cell reference

Back

The set of coordinates where a cell is located. Rows are horizontal and numbered whereas columns are vertical and assigned a letter.

Front

Active cell

Back

The currently selected cell, outlined by a green box.

Front

Workbook

Back

An Excel file that contains one or more worksheets.

Front

Worksheet

Back

Different documents nested within a Workbook.

Front

Worksheet tab

Back

Tabs at the bottom left of the spreadsheet.

Front

Column and row headings

Back

Numbered and lettered cells located just outside of the columns and rows. Selecting a header highlights the entire row or column.

Front

Formula

Back

Mathematical equations, cell references or functions that can be placed inside a cell to produce a value. Formulas must start with an equal '=' sign.

Front

Formula bar

Back

The long input bar used to enter values or formulas in cells. Located at the top of the worksheet, next to the 'fx' label.

Front

Address bar

Back

Located to the left of the formula bar, shows the number and letter coordinates of an active cell.