Merge Cell Problem

[Jetrascal]

I have created a new worksheet which is very basic with no formulas. I
want to merge some cells however the Merge' button on the tool bar is grey'd
out. It does not function. I have never come across this before and do
not know how to fix. Does anyone have any suggestions please. Any reply
appreciated.

Les

 

[Mike Rogers]

Jetrascal

Sounds like your worksheet is protected. Check tools>Protection, if there is
an option to "Unprotect" you have a protected worksheet. You need to have an
unprotected sheet to make this kind of change. Another option rather than
merging cells is to look at Format>Cells>Alignment tab>Under "text alignment"
"Horizontal" select "Center across Selection". This way you get the same
thing as a merged cell but not the numerous problems that come along with
merging cells. (Notice on this tab you can also megre cells if you must)
You still need to have your worksheet unprotected to use this formating.


Mike Rogers

 

[Jetrascal]

Thanks Mike. I think I've checked to see if it is protected already but
will double check when I get to work tomorrow. It is not something I did
when I created the worksheet, however I have set it to track changes.
Would this have anything to do with it?

Les

 

[Gord Dibben]

Yes.

Setting Track Changes makes the workbook "shared" and merge cells is
unavailable.

Good thing..............merged cells cause no end of problems and should be
avoided like the plague.


Gord Dibben MS Excel MVP

 

[Jetrascal]

Thanks Mike & Gord. It seems the problem is solved. Now just have to
decide if I want to keep the Track Changes option.