XL98: Chart Data Labels Linked to Formulas Are Not Updated (184001)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 98 Macintosh Edition
This article was previously published under Q184001

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft Excel 98, a chart data label may not be updated when it is linked to a worksheet cell.

CAUSE

This problem occurs when all of the following conditions are true:
  • A chart data label is linked to a worksheet cell. -and-

  • The worksheet cell that the data label is linked to contains a formula. -and-

  • The cell value is changed because it is recalculated.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, press COMMAND+SHIFT+F9.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Excel 98 Macintosh Edition.

MORE INFORMATION

Example

To see an example of this problem, follow these steps:
  1. In a new workbook, type the following in cells A1 and A2:

    =RAND()

  2. Type the following in cell B1:

    =ROUND(A1+A2,2)

  3. Type the following in cell B2:

    =ROUND(AVERAGE(A1:A2),2)

  4. Select cells A1:A2 and start the Chart Wizard by clicking the Chart icon on the toolbar.
  5. In step 1 of the Chart Wizard, click the XY (Scatter) chart type and click Next. In step 2, click Next.
  6. In step 3, click the Data Labels tab, click Show Value, and then click Next. In step 4, click Finish.

    Pressing F9 to recalculate the sheet updates the data labels. This feature is called "Automatic text" and is not a formula link.
  7. Click the data label for point 1, type an equal sign ( =), and then click cell B1.
  8. Click the data label for point 2, type on equal sign ( =), and then click cell b2.
  9. Click the F9 key to calculate the sheet.

    The data labels are not updated.
NOTE: This example is not the only scenario in which this problem occurs.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:9/11/2002
Keywords:kbbug kbchart KB184001
©2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.