Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated November 12, 2022)
This tip applies to Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, and Excel in Microsoft 365
Craig created a form that has unlocked cells. When this form is protected and he is viewing it on his office computer, he can use the Tab key to move from one unlocked cell to another. However, Craig noticed that when he is using his home computer the Tab key will not move from one cell to another. He wonders why this is happening; why Excel doesn't behave as it does at the office.
The fact that Craig's locked worksheet works just as expected on one system but doesn't work as expected on a different system indicates that the problem is rooted in system configuration, not in how the worksheet itself is protected or how the cells within the worksheet are protected. Here's the first thing you need to check:
Figure 1. The advanced options of the Excel Options dialog box.
If these steps don't work, then there is one other thing to check on the problem system—the status of the Scroll Lock key. When Scroll Lock is engaged, the Tab key may not advance through unprotected cells as expected. Turn it off, and the problem may go away.
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2023-08-16 10:37:04
Dave
When I attempt #3 (Clear the Protect Worksheet and Contents of Locked Cells check box.) the "OK" goes gray and I can't click it. The Workbook is not protected. (Sorry I didn't write this before clicking "Submit Comment")
2023-08-16 10:35:12
Dave
When I attempt #3 (Clear the Protect Worksheet and Contents of Locked Cells check box.) the "OK" goes gray and I can't click it.
2023-07-26 10:13:19
J. Woolley
@Dave
Your scenario indicates that the workbook is protected; unprotect the workbook first.
2023-07-25 15:11:22
Dave
When I clear the Protect Worksheet and Contents of Locked Cells check box, I am unable to Click OK, because that option is grayed out. Is there a solution?
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