Is Office Having Cannot See Which Problems? Here Is the Fix

If your workflow is blocked, confirm the account and app context, then follow the ordered fixes below.

Problem Description: Cannot See Which Cell

As seen in the following picture, in the upper left corner, it indicates that I have cell B4 selected. However, in the spreadsheet, there is no such indication. How did I lose my active cell outline? I'm sure i tapped an unknown combo of keys when I fell asleep while working, but can't for the life of me, figure out how to undo it. Please help! 

Quick Answer for Office Setup on New Device

Thanks for sharing the details!

Likely Causes Behind Excel Root Factors

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger excel & data problems.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Fixing Excel Step by Step

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Excel uses the Windows accent color for the active cell outline.

2. If that color matches the sheet background (white/gray), the border becomes invisible.

3. Press Win + I → Personalization → Colors Change Accent color to something bold (Blue, Red, Green) Turn ON: - Show accent color on title bars and window borders Close and reopen Excel This instantly restores the selection outline in many cases.

4. See if this helps.

5. If you need further assistance just let me know.

6. Best regards, Kimberly

Alternative Solutions for Secondary Excel Fixes

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: WPS as a Local Alternative

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Keeping Office Stable Long Term

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About Office Support Questions

Can WPS Office fix this excel & data problems issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.