Fixing the Decimal Point

Summary: If you've got a lot of similar data to enter (such as dollars and cents), you can be more productive if you tell Excel to assume a decimal point at a certain place in your entry. This tip explains how to configure Excel for a decimal point at a fixed position. (This tip works with Microsoft Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, and Excel 2003.)

Most desktop electronic calculators have an option that allows you to specify a fixed location for a decimal point. This comes in real handy when you are working with dollars and cents, for instance. With the decimal point fixed at two places, you can enter "213" and have the calculator translate it as "2.13". Likewise, if you enter "2", the calculator translates it as "0.02".

Excel has a feature that allows you to do the same thing. To fix the number of decimal places assumed when inputting information, follow these steps:

Choose Options from the Tools menu. Excel displays the Options dialog box.
Make sure the Edit tab is selected. (Click here to see a related figure.)
Make sure the Fixed Decimal check box is selected.
Using the Places control, specify how many decimal places Excel should assume.
Click on OK.

ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2755) applies to Microsoft Excel versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003

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Fixing the Decimal Point