several things can do this
format of the cell is text // format-cells- Number-general

show formula is selected // tools-options-view-deselt formulas

the equal sign is not recognized as equal // select the equal sign and
replace it with a new equal sign


"lindahamilton" wrote:

The formula is correct, but it will not calculate. I shows the syntax in the
cell instead and does not actually do the calculation. Often, if I cut and
paste the data I am working with into a new worksheet it will work, and
sometimes I have to do that 3 or 4 times before it will work, but it is a
very random issue. One of the other power users in my office has seen the
same problem. Has anyone else seen this and is there a fix?