Try this...

To color B1:D1 when A1 has an entry...

Select the *entire* range B1:D1 starting from cell B1. Cell B1 will be the
active cell. The active cell is the one cell in the selected range that is
not shaded. The formula will be relative to the active cell.

Goto the menu FormatConditional Formatting
Select the Formula Is option
Enter this formula in the box on the right:
=$A1<""
Click the Format button
Select the desired style(s)
OK out

--
Biff
Microsoft Excel MVP


"wilko" wrote in message
...
Can anybody help?

If I insert a tick or a certain symbol in one cell, how can I get other
cells on the same line to change colour, i.e to show that they have been
checked or viewed

Your help would be appreciated

JW