Use Format Painter with 3 how-to topics, all available without membership; choose a topic from the index and follow the steps to copy and apply cell formatting.
How-to Index
| # | Topic | Membership |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Copy formatting from one cell | Free |
| 2 | 2. Apply formatting to a target cell | Free |
| 3 | 3. Drag to apply formatting to multiple cells | Free |
How-to Guide
1. Copy formatting from one cell
Entry point: Tools → Home → Format Painter
- Open your spreadsheet and select the source cell whose format you want to copy.
- Tap Tools at the bottom or side of the screen.
- Open the Home tab.
- Tap Format Painter to enter format copy mode.
Success Criteria
- UI state: The source cell remains selected and Format Painter has been turned on.
- Next actions: You can tap a target cell next to apply the copied format.
Tips While Using
- Common mistakes: If you tap Format Painter before selecting a source cell, the result may not match your expectation.
- Environment limits: You need to work in an editable spreadsheet file.
2. Apply formatting to a target cell
Entry point: Tools → Home → Format Painter
- Complete the source cell formatting copy first.
- Tap the target cell where you want to paste the format.
- Check whether the font, color, border, or fill now matches the source cell.
Success Criteria
- UI state: The target cell shows the same style as the source cell.
- Next actions: You can continue editing content or use Undo and Save as needed.
- No side effects: The original content and formulas in the target cell are not replaced by Format Painter.
Tips While Using
- Common mistakes: Do not treat Format Painter like regular copy and paste. It changes formatting only.
3. Drag to apply formatting to multiple cells
Entry point: Tools → Home → Format Painter
- Select the source cell whose format you want to copy.
- Tap Format Painter.
- Drag across the target area to select multiple cells that should receive the format.
- Release and check whether the selected cells now share the same style.
Success Criteria
- UI state: Multiple selected target cells receive the same formatting.
- Next actions: You can continue adjusting other areas or save the spreadsheet directly.
Tips While Using
- Common mistakes: Dragging too far may apply formatting to cells you did not intend to change.
- Environment limits: Confirm the target range before you drag.