medium risk
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Find inconsistent formulas in Excel (copy and drag errors)
An inconsistent formula breaks the pattern of the cells around it — for example =A6*B7 in a column where every other row multiplies cells on the same row. It is usually a drag, copy or insert-row mistake.
| Expected | C5: =A5*B5 |
|---|---|
| Found | C6: =A6*B7 |
| Why flagged | C6 references B7 instead of B6. |
Why it matters
- The result looks plausible, so the error survives review.
- Inserted rows and partial copies are common during month-end updates.
- Excel’s green-triangle warning is easy to dismiss and is often turned off.
How to find it manually in Excel
- Turn on Formulas → Error Checking → "Formulas inconsistent with other formulas in the region".
- Show formulas (Ctrl + `) and compare each cell with its neighbours.
- Use Trace Precedents on suspicious cells.
How DraftReview detects it
Formulas are converted to a relative R1C1 pattern so copied formulas compare as equal. A cell is flagged only when the formulas directly above and below share the dominant pattern and this one differs — so normal total rows are not reported.
How to fix it
- Compare the flagged formula with its neighbour shown in the finding.
- Re-copy the formula down the block if the difference is not intentional.
Find this in your workbook with the Excel Error Checker
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