MS Excel file access

[ugly_bob]

Is it possible for one spreadsheet to access another? Separate files, not separate sheets in the same file?
If so, do they both need to be open at the same time?
Am I going to need to learn VBasic to write macros to do it?
Am I better off using something else that can export to Excel format files?

[mikeyp]

To access a cell in another file use this formula:

='[Book1.xls]Sheet1'!A1

if Book1 (the sheet you are linking) is closed, excel will automatically add a directory, (it may bring up a window so you can select the file):

='C:\Directory\[Book1.xls]Sheet1'!A1

You can link even if the linked file is closed. When you open a spreadsheet with links it will ask if you wish to update.

A nifty way of doing it is to have both spread sheets open. Then begin typing your link formula with = Then click Window at the top, and select the other spreadsheet. Locate the cell you want and click it, then press enter to confirm.

[ugly_bob]

Thanks.

So it is possible, in fact not too complicated by the looks of things. I'll have to have a play around and see if I can get it to do exactly what I want.