What term describes a formula reference that does not change when copied to other cells?

• A. Absolute Reference
• B. Active Cell
• C. Cell Range
• D. Column Chart

Answer: (A)

The concept is about keeping a reference fixed when you copy a formula. When a formula is copied, its normal references move with the location, adjusting to the new position. To prevent that and keep pointing to the same cell, you use an absolute reference. This is typically shown with dollar signs that lock the row, the column, or both, like $A$1 (fully fixed), $A1 (lock the column only), or A$1 (lock the row only). This ensures the cell reference stays constant no matter where you paste the formula.

Other terms here describe different things and aren’t about locking references: the active cell is simply the cell you’re currently editing; a cell range is a selected block of cells; and a column chart is a type of chart, not a cell reference behavior.