Microsoft Excel XP/X
Pointer Shapes
As with other Microsoft programs, the shape of the pointer changes as you are working with the program. Each pointer shape is communicating something about how Excel is working. The shape of the pointer when you click and drag a cell will greatly influence the results of the click and drag. The following document includes a table that describes each of the pointer shapes that you may encounter in your Excel work.
System |
Shape |
Meaning |
Action |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The default pointer shape. | Move cell pointer or select a range of cells | |
|
When the pointer is on a border (column, row, or window), the pointer changes to a two-headed black pointer. When adjusting row height, the arrow goes up and down. When adjusting column width, the arrows point right to left. | Adjust the column width, row height, or window size | |
|
When you are editing the contents of a cell, the pointer will change to an I-beam. | Move the insertion point within the cell | |
Windows: Macintosh: |
|
The pointer turns to a four-headed arrow when you have a graphic that may be moved | With the pointer over the graphic, click and drag to the new location |
Windows: Macintosh: |
|
Appears when you are pointing to the border of a cell. |
Click and drag cell to a new location |
Windows:
|
|
Appears when you are at the "fill corner" of a cell or range of cells. |
Click and drag the fill corner to Autofill other cells with similar information |
