Excel is selecting cells as I draw

I have the exact same issue with my Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. After updating the Excel app the problem seemed to have disappeared but came back a few days later. Any other remedies besides the steps mentioned?

Hi Jacob,

I haven't received any updates since your message. Has everything been resolved yet?

Hi Jacob,

Thank you for contacting to Microsoft Q&A Forum regarding the issue you are experiencing with Excel on your Galaxy S9 FE tablet after the recent update.

From your description, it sounds like the update may have changed the default input mode in Excel. Instead of allowing you to use the Draw feature, the app is interpreting your pen or touch input as a cell selection.

Here are a few steps you can try to restore drawing functionality:

1. Enable the Draw Tab: Open Excel, go to the ribbon at the top, and select the Draw tab. Make sure a pen tool is selected. If you do not see the Draw tab, you may need to enable it under File > Options > Customize Ribbon.
2. Check S Pen Settings: Updates can reset stylus preferences. Go to your tablet’s settings and confirm that the S Pen is set to function as a drawing tool rather than a pointer.
3. Update Excel App: Ensure that you are running the latest version of Excel from the Google Play Store. Updates often fix compatibility issues after system upgrades.
4. Restart or Reset Preferences: Restart your tablet and, if necessary, reset Excel’s app preferences to restore default behavior.

Hopefully my response gives you some useful direction toward fixing this.

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