It sounds like the cell if formatted as TEXT.

Select the cell in question
Format it as GENERAL
With the cell still selected hit function key F2 then hit ENTER

--
Biff
Microsoft Excel MVP


"Nikki" wrote in message
...
Hi,

I have created a Master worksheet and would like other sheets to update if
information is entered into the Master.

I have typed =Master!A8 but instead of the information in cell A8 in sheet
Master appearing in my cell the text =Master!A8 appears.

Why is this happening? I am sure I have used this formula before. have I
missed something or is there something wrong with the formatting behind
it?