What is relative references in Google Sheets?
A relative reference moves when you copy a formula because row and column offsets stay the same, not the exact cell address. Google Sheets uses A1-style addresses like B2 by default. Relative refs are the normal choice for formulas you plan to fill down or across.
When to use it
Use relative references when writing or auditing formulas that must point at the right cells after copy, fill, or sheet changes.
When to skip it
Skip worrying about relative references when a named range, QUERY, or pivot already expresses the logic more clearly.
Better Sheets resources
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Absolute reference ($)
Absolute references lock row, column, or both with dollar signs so a formula keeps pointing at the same cell when you copy it. $A$1 locks both axes. A$1 locks the row. $A1 locks the column. Mixed locks are how tax rates stay in one settings cell while a formula fills down a thousand rows.
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Read guide →Done reading about relative references?
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