Excel functions do not execute

[Bill]

I have an Excel spreadsheet and when I enter a function, for example
=if(l2="", j2, l2) it enters the function text and does not execute the
function. Also, logical formulas do not execute. For example, entering =a2 in
cell a3 returns "=a2" and not the contents of cell a2. Can anyone advise me
on resolving this problem?

Thank you.

 

[David Biddulph]

Either Control ` (Control backquote) to toggle on and off display of
formulae across the whole worksheet,
or you've got the cells formatted as text. If so, format as general and
then re-enter the formula.

 

[JMB]

if the cell is formatted as text, format it as general and re-confirm your
function by hitting F2 (edit mode) then enter.

Or, you could have show formulas on. Tools/Options/View - uncheck formulas.
Or hit Ctrl ~

 

[David Biddulph]

Are you sure you mean Ctrl ~ ? Shouldn't it be Ctrl ` ? [Or perhaps it's
different with different settings?]

 

[JMB]

Yes - I intended ctrl `

Are you sure you mean Ctrl ~ ? Shouldn't it be Ctrl ` ? [Or perhaps it's
different with different settings?]
--
David Biddulph

if the cell is formatted as text, format it as general and re-confirm your
function by hitting F2 (edit mode) then enter.

Or, you could have show formulas on. Tools/Options/View - uncheck
formulas.
Or hit Ctrl ~