How to Use Fill Handle to Copy Formula in Excel (2 Examples)

We have made a sample dataset for some companies. We will use the Fill Handle tool both vertically and horizontally.

Example 1 – Copying a Formula Vertically by Dragging the Fill Handle in Excel

Steps

• We have used the SUM function to calculate the sum cells from D5:F5 in the G5 cell.
• Select the G5 cell.

• Place the cursor on the bottom-right corner of the selected cell.

• Click and hold on the plus icon (the Fill Handle) and drag it down.

• The subsequent cells show that the formula has been copied with modified references.

• You can choose alternative AutoFill options by clicking on the AutoFill icon on the right and selecting a different option.

Method 2 – Dragging the Fill Handle Horizontally to Copy a Formula 

Steps

• We have used the SUM function to calculate the sum from D5 to D14 cells in the G15 cell.
• Select G15.

• Place the cursor on the bottom-right corner of the selected D15 cell. It will change to a plus (the Fill Handle).

• Left-click and hold the Fill Handle, then drag it to the right.

• The formulas in cells to the right of G15 show modified formulas.

• You can choose alternative AutoFill options by clicking on the AutoFill icon and selecting an option.

Read More: How to Enable Drag Formula in Excel

How to Use a Keyboard Shortcut to Copy Formula in Excel

Case 1 – Horizontal Copying

• Place the formula in the reference cell.
• Select the cell to the right.

• Press Ctrl +R button.

Read More: How to Drag Cells in Excel Using Keyboard

Case 2 – Vertical Copying

• Place the formula in the reference cell.
• Select the cell below.

• Press Ctrl + D.

Read More: [Solved]: Fill Handle Not Working in Excel

Things to Remember

• You need to click on the bottom-right corner to activate the Fill Handle. Look for the plus icon. Clicking on the center of the cell will not act as a Fill Handle.
• You can also use the Fill Handle to copy up and left by dragging in those directions.
• The keyboard shortcut is not included in the Fill Handle. It is mainly a shortcut that we can do for casual use.

Download the Practice Workbook

Related Articles

• Excel Fill Down to Next Value
• How to Fill Formula Down to Specific Row in Excel
• How to Drag Formula and Ignore Hidden Cells in Excel

<< Go Back to Fill Handle in Excel | Learn Excel