XL2000: Comparison Value Changed from Fraction to Serial Number

If you enter a comparison value for a condition in the Conditional Formatting dialog box, the value may be changed if you close and reopen the Conditional Formatting dialog box.

This problem occurs when you enter a fraction for a comparison value in the Conditional Formatting dialog box. When you do this, the value may be changed to a serial number that represents a date.

For example, in the Conditional Formatting dialog box, if you click Cell Value Is in the first list, greater than in the second list, and then type 7/2 in the last field, 7/2 is changed to 35613 the next time you view the condition.

To enter a fraction for a comparison value, precede the fraction with an equal sign. Given the example in the "Cause" section, type the following: If you want to specify a comparison value like 1 1/3, enter the number as follows: If you enter the number as follows: the value is changed to 1.33333333333333 the next time you view the condition.

Based on the conditions (up to three) you use for the conditional format for the cell, Microsoft Excel dynamically applies a different font, style, pattern, or border to the cell.

For more information about conditional formatting, click Microsoft Excel Help on the Help menu, type conditional formats in the Office Assistant or the Answer Wizard, and then click Search to view the topics returned.