Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated March 16, 2024)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
Gary wrote about a problem he was experiencing with Excel. It seems that any customizations he made to the Standard toolbar were periodically and randomly removed by Excel. This didn't happen when he customized other toolbars--only the Standard toolbar.
This does, indeed, sound odd. Several other ExcelTips subscribers attempted to duplicate the problem, but were unable to do so. For that reason, it appears that the problem may be due to some conflict with a different program installed on the system. Unfortunately, it is virtually impossible to track down such problems. The only solution is to work around them.
The first suggestion is to not make any modifications to the Standard toolbar, if that is the only one exhibiting this problem. Instead, create a brand new toolbar and place on it the tools you would normally have on the Standard toolbar, plus your customizations. This leaves the original Standard toolbar "as is" and provides you with a new toolbar that has all the same functionality, customized for your individual needs. You can then turn off the Standard toolbar and only display your custom one.
Another good idea is to periodically back up your toolbar customizations. If you do run into funny, random resetting of the toolbars, you can then use your backup to restore everything the way you want it.
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2593) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003.
Excel Smarts for Beginners! Featuring the friendly and trusted For Dummies style, this popular guide shows beginners how to get up and running with Excel while also helping more experienced users get comfortable with the newest features. Check out Excel 2019 For Dummies today!
When you make a change to one of Excel's toolbars, do you know where that change is stored? This tip explains the name ...
Discover MoreWouldn't it be great to have a workbook accessible with just a single button click? It's possible if you follow the steps ...
Discover MoreEver tried to clean-up the icons on your toolbar only to have one that won't go away? This tip explores some possible ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Excel that uses the menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the ribbon interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments