Absolute references and inserting columns

[BobK]

I created a formula that contains absolute references (ex. =sum($C$5, $C$7,
$C$9)). I need to insert a NEW, blank column C. Even with absolute references
in the formula, the formula changes the references to $D$5, $D$7, etc.

Is there a way to keep the formula pointing to column C regardless of
inserting new columns?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Gary''s Student]

=SUM(INDIRECT("$C$5"),INDIRECT("$C$7"),INDIRECT("$C$9"))

 

[David Biddulph]

Use the INDIRECT function.

 

[Fred Smith]

One way is to use Indirect, as in:
=indirect("C5")+indirect("C7")+indirect("C9")

In your example, using Sum is superfluous. Just add the numbers.

Regards,
Fred.

 

[Bernard Liengme]

Why SUM when =$C$5 + $C$7+ $C$9 does the same thing?
Now to answer your question
=INDIRECT("C5")+INDIRECT("C7")+INDIRECT("C9")
best wishes