how to copy a formula down a column

" like =a1/b2. and then a1/b3. etc etc. using the same cell with different cells for the column "

Assuming that you want the first reference to A1 to remain as A1, and want the reference to B2 to increment by 1 per row as you fill the formula down the column:

Revise the formula to include the absolute reference operator before the 1 in A1.

A$1/B2

(Note that Numbers will immediately change the division operator to a division sign ( ÷ ) when you enter it in the formula editor.)

To fill the formula into cells below the one where it is entered:

Hover the pointer near the bottom of the cell containing the entered formula.

Use the pointer to grab the Fill Control (small yellow circle) that appears in the bottom boundary of that cell.

Drag the Fill control down the column for as many rows as needed.

Alternate method, useful for larger numbers of rows:

After entering the formula in the first cell;

Select the cell containing the formula. Press command-C to copy.

Scroll to the last row that is to receive the formula.

Press the Shift ket and,with the shift key down, click on the last cell that is to receive the formula to select that cell and all cells between it and the already selected first cell.

With all cells to receive the formula now selected, press command-V to Paste the copied formula into the selected cells. Numbers will automatically adjust the B2 reference to the default interval, and keep the A1 reference pointed to A1.

Regards,

Barry

khboss wrote:

using the same cell with different cells for the column

In Numbers you can use the formula editor interface 'Preserve Row' feature to insert the $ anchor, something like this:

And once you've got the formula working in a cell you can drag the yellow dot down to fill the formula into the rows below:

SG