How to Restore Excel Function Syntax and Argument ScreenTips
Question details
The user needs to re-enable the floating tooltips that display function syntax and arguments when typing formulas in Excel.
- Product
- Excel 2021
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Entering mathematical formulas and functions in a spreadsheet cell.
- Observed behavior
- Excel no longer displays the syntax and argument hints (ScreenTips) when typing a function followed by an opening parenthesis, such as =SUM( or =VLOOKUP(.
Ensure you have a spreadsheet open in Excel so you can immediately test the function ScreenTips after adjusting your display settings.
Enable Function ScreenTips in Excel Options
Use the Advanced options menu in Excel to turn the ScreenTips feature back on.
Excel handles formula tooltips through a specific display setting that can sometimes be disabled by accident or during a software update. Re-enabling this setting will instantly restore the floating syntax hints for all standard functions.
Click on the 'File' tab located in the top-left corner of the Excel ribbon. In the menu that appears, select 'Options' at the bottom of the left-hand sidebar.
In the Excel Options dialog box, click on 'Advanced' in the left-hand navigation pane.
Scroll down the right side until you find the 'Display' section. Check the box next to 'Show function ScreenTips', then click the 'OK' button to save your changes.
Click into any empty cell in your spreadsheet and start typing a formula, such as '=SUM('. The syntax and argument tooltips should now appear directly beneath the formula bar.
Enjoy Built-in Formula Hints with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by disappearing features or complex settings in Microsoft Excel, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and completely free spreadsheet solution that displays clear formula syntax and argument hints by default.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download and install the free suite on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and easily open your existing Excel files without losing any data or formatting.
- 3. Type Your Formula: Select a cell and type an equals sign followed by a function name (like =VLOOKUP(). The syntax ScreenTip will instantly appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Excel function ScreenTips suddenly disappear?
Function ScreenTips typically disappear if the setting is accidentally unchecked in Excel's Advanced Display settings. This can occasionally happen due to unexpected software glitches, after installing certain updates, or if a third-party add-in interferes with Excel's UI display.
Can I resize or move the function ScreenTip box?
Yes, you can move the function ScreenTip. Simply hover your mouse cursor over the edge of the ScreenTip box until it changes to a four-headed arrow, then click and drag it to a new position. However, you cannot directly change the font size of the ScreenTips without modifying your overall Windows display scaling.
What should I do if the ScreenTips still do not show after enabling the setting?
If enabling the setting does not resolve the issue, try restarting Excel entirely. If the problem persists, try opening Excel in Safe Mode to determine if an add-in is blocking the tooltips. You may also need to run the Office Repair tool from your system's Control Panel.
