How do I change the background of an Excel formula bar?

Hi @Jim Tanner

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

Regarding your issue, unfortunately, Excel does not allow you to change the background color of the formula bar directly it’s fixed by the application theme. 

 However, there are a few steps you can try 

1. Switch Excel Office Theme

• Go to File > Options > General > Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office. 
• 
• Under Office Theme, choose:  
• White or Colorful for a lighter background. 
• Avoid Dark Gray or Black if visibility is an issue.  Note: Changing the Office theme won’t let you customize the formula bar color it will still stay black. However, if you choose a lighter theme (like White or Colorful), the overall interface will at least be brighter, which can make the formula bar text a little easier to read when you select it.

2. Use Cell Editing instead 

• Press F2 to edit directly in the cell instead of using the formula bar. 

3. Submit Feedback 

I agree that having the option to change the formula bar background would help improve your workflow and make formulas easier to read so as Microsoft user I highly recommend submitting your feedback through the Ideas - Community (in English) as this allows others to see and upvote your suggestion and helps our product development team better understand user needs and prioritize improvements. The more voices they hear, the greater the chance we’ll see enhancements in future updates. 

Or you can also submit feedback directly inside Excel as well by clicking Help > Feedback

Please note that as Microsoft Community moderators, we are not directly involved in product design decisions and do not have access to the development roadmap. However, we want to assure you that your feedback has been acknowledged and is truly valued.      

Thank you for your understanding and feedback.

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