I have a large data list with subtotals (in fact with nested subtotals). I
have collapsed the list so that only the subtotals are showing. Next I set up
a few columns to the right of the data list with the intent of applying
certain calculations, again ONLY to the subtotals.

Here lieth the problem: when I set up the formulas for the first subtotal
and attempt to simply drag it down, Excel obviously assumes that the copied
formula applies to the next row of the full-blown, uncollapsed data list. Is
there any way to accomplish the task without having to manually create a
separate table that only displays the subtotaled data? That would be a very
big (and boring) job. Incidentally the row interval between subtotals varies
widely.