Dollar signs control which parts of a cell reference move when a formula is copied. They do not protect a cell from editing or keep its value confidential.
Choose relative or absolute references
A2 is relative: copying the formula one row down changes that reference to A3. $A$2 fixes both the column and row, so the copied formula continues to use A2.
If quantities are in B2:B10 and one shared rate is in F1, =B2*$F$1 lets each row use its own quantity while retaining the common rate. Check the source cells before copying down.
Use mixed references for two-dimensional copying
$A2 fixes column A but allows the row to move. A$2 fixes row 2 but allows the column to move. These are useful when a calculation is filled both across and down.
For example, multiplying row labels in column A by column labels in row 1 can use =$A2*B$1 from B2. Each anchor corresponds to a specific intended relationship, not a general rule that more dollar signs are safer.
Inspect the copied formulas
Review the first copied cell, a middle cell, and the far corner of a filled block. Compare their references and expected results. A total that looks reasonable can still use one repeated quantity accidentally.
Structural edits such as moving or deleting source cells deserve a separate reference review; dollar signs address copying behavior, not every future workbook change. If the goal is to prevent collaborators from overwriting formulas, use appropriate protected-range settings in addition to carefully designed references and test them with the relevant editing roles.
References
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.