Definition: The single cell currently selected and ready to receive input.
Appearance: Highlighted with a thick or bold border, often with a different background or outline colour.
Purpose: When you type or paste data, it goes into the active cell.
Navigation: You can change the active cell by clicking another cell, using the arrow keys, or pressing Enter/Tab.
Additional Info About Active Cells:
Editing: Double-clicking the active cell or pressing F2 lets you edit the contents directly inside the cell.
Address: The active cell’s location is shown in the “Name Box” (usually top-left corner above the grid), e.g., A1, B5, etc.
Range: While only one cell can be active at a time, you can select multiple cells (a range) to apply formatting or formulas, but only the active cell in the range will receive direct input.
Related Terms:
Selected Cells: One or more cells that are highlighted for actions like formatting, copying, or deleting. The active cell is always part of the selection.
Cursor: The blinking indicator inside the active cell when you are typing or editing.
Formula Bar: Shows the content or formula of the active cell and lets you edit it.