Article ID: 222170 - Last Review: November 5, 2003 - Revision: 3.0

XL2000: Natural Language Formulas Produce #NAME? Errors

This article was previously published under Q222170
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SYMPTOMS

When you use a natural language formula you receive a #NAME? error.

CAUSE

This occurs when natural language formulas are not enabled.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, enable natural language formulas. To do this, follow these steps:
  1. On the Tools menu, click Options.
  2. In the Options dialog box, click the Calculation tab.
  3. Under Workbook options, click to select the Accept labels in formulas check box.

MORE INFORMATION

Natural language formulas are disabled by default. This behavior is different from earlier versions of Microsoft Excel. To enable natural language formulas as the default behavior, follow these steps:
  1. On the Tools menu, click Options.
  2. In the Options dialog box, click the Calculation tab.
  3. Under Workbook options, click to select the Accept labels in formulas check box. Click OK.
  4. On the File menu, click Save As. Name the file "book.xlt" (without the quotation marks).
  5. In the Save as type list, click Template.
  6. In the Save in list, click the appropriate folder for your operating system.

    Windows 95/98

    C:\Windows\Application Data\Microsoft\Excel\XLStart

    Windows NT

    C:\Winnt\Profiles\username\Application Data\Microsoft\Excel\XLStart

    where username represents your user name.

    Windows 2000

    C:\Documents and Settings\username\Application Data\Microsoft\Excel\XLStart

    where username represents your user name.
  7. Click Save.

APPLIES TO
  • Microsoft Excel 2000 Standard Edition
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