I cannot edit cells in Microsoft Excel on my MacBook Pro

Hi, Heidi R

Since this happens with both new and existing workbooks, the issue is more likely related to Excel’s activation, an outdated Office build, or an add-in preventing normal input. Office can open files but block editing when it enters reduced functionality mode.

Here are some suggestions you can try:

In Excel, select Excel > About Microsoft Excel and check whether it shows Unlicensed Product or an activation warning. Then select Excel > Sign Out, close all Office apps, reopen Excel, and sign in with the Microsoft account that owns the Office license.

Select Help > Check for Updates, install all available Office updates, and restart your Mac. A recent Office for Mac issue can allow files to open and print while editing and saving remain unavailable. See current Excel for Mac issues

Select Tools > Excel Add-ins, clear all selected add-ins, and restart Excel. An add-in can sometimes interfere with workbook editing.

If Excel still will not accept typing, use the Office license removal tool for Mac, then reopen Excel and activate it again.

Thank you for your patience in reading, I hope this information has been helpful to you. 

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