Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated May 23, 2022)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
The AutoFill feature of Excel can be a great timesaver when entering information. However, you may want to disable the feature for a particular workbook; perhaps you don't want the feature to be used by anyone using your workbook. Doing so is easy if you create a macro that can recognize when you are working with that particular workbook.
To turn off the AutoFill feature for a particular workbook, follow these steps:
Private Sub Workbook_Activate() Application.CellDragAndDrop = False End Sub
Private Sub Workbook_Deactivate() Application.CellDragAndDrop = True End Sub
The first macro is only run when the particular workbook is activated. In other words, when the workbook attains focus or is selected. When a different workbook attains focus, then the second macro is executed.
Note:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2594) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) here: Turning Off AutoFill for a Workbook.
Program Successfully in Excel! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to automate any task in Excel and save time and effort. Learn how to extend Excel's functionality with VBA to create solutions not possible with the standard features. Includes latest information for Excel 2024 and Microsoft 365. Check out Mastering Excel VBA Programming today!
Excel's Paste Special command is used quite a bit. If you want to create some shortcuts for the command, here's some ways ...
Discover MoreIf your worksheet formulas seem to go on forever, here's a handy way to make them more understandable. (All you need to ...
Discover MorePaste information in a worksheet, and you may end up with Excel placing it into lots of different cells. If you want it ...
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