Numbers iPad lock column in spreadsheet to prevent changes

Question

Numbers iPad lock column in spreadsheet to prevent changes

I have created a form in numbers that I use to track carbohydrates in my meals. It is very simple form with columns for food(about 150 rows), carbs per 100 g, quantity g, and carbs.

The system is to enter a number in the “quantity g” and the amount of carbs is calculated by multiplying that number by the value in “carbs per 100 g” and entered in “carbs”. I would like to lock columns “food” and “carbs per 100 g” so they can not be accidentally changed. I am old and fumble fingered so I occasionally end up entering my quantity in the “carbs per 100 g” cell. If I could lock my fixed data columns it would make life simpler.

I know the obvious answer is “be careful” but that does not solve the problem. One could accidentally delete an entire column of data and that would be a real mess. I’m sure others would like to protect data from accidental changes or deletions.

Thanks in advance for your help

Ed

iPad Pro, 11-inch, 4th Gen, Wi-Fi

Posted on Nov 30, 2022 9:54 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Bryan_K1

Community Specialist

Dec 4, 2022 8:44 AM in response to albuquerque_ed

Hello albuquerque_ed,

Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities!

While there is a way to lock a table in Numbers using the steps outlined in here: Resize, move, or lock a table in Numbers on iPad - Apple Support , there currently isn't a way to lock specific columns or rows within the table.

If this is something you'd like to see Apple add in the future, you can submit that feedback to them here: Product Feedback - Apple

Take care!

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Answer 2

Yellowbox

Level 7

21,939 points

Dec 15, 2022 12:56 AM in response to albuquerque_ed

Hi Ed,

Because it is possible to lock a whole table (but not part of a table) use two tables:

An Input table (not locked). One column, Quantity, g.
A Result table(locked) with fixed data (Food, Carbs/100 g) and the result (formula to calculate Carbs).

Some made up data. Screen shot before locking the Result table:

Tap on the result table and drag it by the "bull's eye" (concentric circles, top left) to abut the Input table, then lock the Result table.

That appears to be a single table, but it isn't.

The small x symbols at the corners and sides of the Result table show that it is locked. The data and formula are protected against accidental changes.

Regards,

Ian.

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Answer 3

Dec 4, 2022 4:04 PM in response to Bryan_K1

Thanks Bryan_K1

I was afraid that was the case. I will submit a suggestion to product feedback.

Warmest Regards,

Ed

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Numbers iPad lock column in spreadsheet to prevent changes

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