How is an absolute cell reference indicated?

(A) With a # sign before the cell

(B) With a $ sign before the column and/or row

(C) With parentheses around the cell

(D) With a $ sign before the column and/or row

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

An absolute cell reference in spreadsheet applications (like MS Excel or Google Sheets) is indicated by placing a $ sign before the column letter and/or row number.

For example:

• $A$1 → Both column and row are fixed (absolute reference)
• $A1 → Only column is fixed (mixed reference)
• A$1 → Only row is fixed (mixed reference)

When a cell reference is absolute, it remains constant when the formula is copied to other cells.

Examining the given options:

(A) The # sign is not used for absolute references. It typically indicates errors or is used in other contexts.

(B) Correct - The $ sign before column and/or row creates an absolute reference.

(C) Parentheses are used for grouping operations in formulas, not for cell references.

(D) This is identical to option (B) - restating the same correct method.

Since options (B) and (D) say the same thing, and the question format considers (B) as the primary correct statement, Option 1: (B) only is the correct answer.