enable formula auditing

Question

How to re-enable formula auditing (trace dependents / precedents) in pc excel?

Answer 1

Hi @Dennis Gage ,

If Trace Precedents/Dependents is disabled or not working in Excel (desktop), check the following:

• Make sure the selected cell contains a formula (these options are only enabled for formula cells).
• Exit Edit mode (press Enter or Esc).
• Set calculation to Automatic (Formulas → Calculation Options).
• Ensure the sheet/workbook isn’t protected (Review tab).
• Clear and re-apply arrows: Formulas → Remove Arrows (clear previous state) → Trace Precedents/Dependents.
• If formulas reference closed/external workbooks, tracing may not work.

If the issue persists:

• Start Excel in safe mode (Win + R → "excel /safe") to rule out add-ins. If the issue does not occur, you can re-enable add-ins one by one to identify and disable the problematic one.
• Run an Office Quick Repair.
  https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/repair-an-office-application-7821d4b6-7c1d-4205-aa0e-a6b40c5bb88b

https://support.microsoft.com/office/display-the-relationships-between-formulas-and-cells-a59bef2b-3701-46bf-8ff1-d3518771d507

Regards,
Burak V.