Lights, camera, format!
Q: I know it is possible to paste-link Excel data into Microsoft Word so that any formatting changes I make to the original data are automatically reflected in the pasted data in Word, but is there also a way to paste-link Excel data into another Excel worksheet so that formatting changes made to the original data are automatically reflected in the paste-linked data on the second worksheet? So far I am unable to find a solution.
A: You are correct in that paste-linking Excel data into the same Excel workbook or another Excel workbook results in a data link to the original data, but not a formatting link to the original data. To achieve the effect you want, use Excel’s Camera tool as follows. Highlight the data to be copied, click the Camera tool (pictured below), then click the workbook area where you want the resulting image pasted.
Thereafter, the resulting Camera-pasted image will update automatically to reflect any data changes or formatting changes you make to the original data, as shown below.
Note: In Excel 2013, 2010, and 2007, the Camera tool is hidden. To access this tool, you must first add it to your Quick Access Toolbar (or Ribbon in Excel 2013 or 2010) by customizing your menus as explained in the January 2011 JofA Technology Q&A item “I Command You” (page 63).
