Sometimes a formatted table will limit the ability to copy a sheet.
You can’t use the automated subtotal feature within a formatted table.
Excel’s Sharing feature (Review tab) is affected by formatted tables.
Applying sheet protection can affect some functionality of formatted tables.
Some of the disadvantages of formatted tables are: In Excel 2013 and later versions they are required when using the Relationships icon in the Data ribbon.
Formatted tables work seamlessly with Power Query and PowerPivot.
Some keyboard shortcuts work slightly differently (in a positive way) when used inside formatted tables.
There are extra options on the right-click menu and the Insert and Delete options work well with a formatted table.
This occurs when creating or editing formulas and when new rows are added.
Formulas are automatically copied down columns.
Using a formatted table as a data source for a PivotTable means that any extra rows or columns are automatically included when the PivotTable is refreshed.
Structured references are automatically created these are like range names and will be explained later.
The headers are always visible as you scroll down the table.
Filter icons are automatically added to the header row.
The table range automatically expands (including the format) when you add new rows or columns to the table.
By using the Format as Table icon you instruct Excel to treat a table like a basic database.įormatted tables have many advantages, such as: Unfortunately, most people think it is a formatting feature. The Format as Table icon on the Home ribbon tab was added in Excel 2007.