I think you got the answer correct with the "format as General" suggestion.

But since xl97, you can put 32k characters in a cell. If you leave excel to its
own devices, you'll be able to see about 1000 characters. But you can add a
bunch of alt-enters (to force new lines in the cell) and see tons more.

Sharon wrote:

Have you tried making the row height bigger? Also, maybe format the cell to
General if it's set at Text. I also think that there is a maximum character
length for cells, I want to say 256 but am not sure.

"SleepyDawn" wrote:

I have been using Excel (XP) to make a text chart for several months. Some of
my text entries are rather lengthy. The past two weeks these lengthy entries
are showing up as pound signs (#########) when I click off the cell. I know
the text will fit in the cell, and the problem isn't solved by making the
cell bigger or using a little bit less text. I have the cells formatted as
"text" and "wrap to fit". I have printed the pages and the printed version
also has pound signs. I just want my text to show up!

--

Dave Peterson