How to Fix Cannot Copy from SharePoint Calculated Column in Edge
Question details
Users are unable to copy text from a SharePoint calculated column in the details pane when using Microsoft Edge or other modern browsers.

- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to copy calculated values from the SharePoint list details pane for reporting or data entry.
- Observed behavior
- The copy function is restricted or unresponsive in the modern SharePoint experience, though it may work correctly in the classic view.
Ensure you have permissions to edit list views and can access the classic SharePoint experience before attempting these workarounds.
Switch to the Classic SharePoint Experience
Temporarily reverting to the classic view bypasses the modern experience restrictions and allows copying.
Microsoft has confirmed that the restriction on copying from calculated columns in the modern details pane is by design. However, the classic SharePoint interface does not enforce this restriction.
Navigate to the problematic SharePoint list in your modern browser.
Scroll to the bottom left corner of the screen and click on 'Return to classic SharePoint'.
Locate the calculated column in your list, highlight the text, and copy it using the right-click menu or keyboard shortcuts.

Check Column Configuration and Contact Support
If the issue persists across all users and experiences, verify column settings and escalate to Microsoft Support to inspect the tenant backend.
Use a Browser Extension to Allow Copying
A browser extension that forces right-click access can bypass UI restrictions, though it should be used carefully.
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While SharePoint web restrictions are tied to the Microsoft ecosystem, you can optimize your desktop document workflow with WPS Office. It is a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to Microsoft Office that easily handles Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without the lag or UI restrictions found in web-based apps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I copy text from a SharePoint calculated column?
Microsoft support has confirmed that restricting the ability to copy from calculated columns in the modern experience's details pane is 'by design'. This is a UI implementation choice for the modern SharePoint interface.
Does this copying issue only happen in Microsoft Edge?
No, this restriction occurs across multiple modern browsers (like Chrome and Firefox) because the limitation is built into the modern SharePoint web experience itself, not the browser.
Are browser extensions safe to use for bypassing SharePoint copy restrictions?
While extensions like 'Allow Right-Click' can restore copying functionality, they should be used with extreme caution. It is highly recommended to avoid third-party add-ons when dealing with sensitive corporate or business data.




