Hi Jim,

In addition to Neil's post, In version 2002 onward you have the
option to select unlocked cells only when applying protection.
This means the user can only select the cells you specify.
In earlier versions the user can select locked cells but
recieves an error message if they attempt to edit them.

Also it should be noted that excel protection is very
easily broken. It doesn't stop anyone who is actually
trying to tamper with the file. It really only stops any
accidental changes.

HTH
Martin