How can you freeze panes in an Excel spreadsheet?

Freezing panes in an Excel spreadsheet is an effective way to keep specific rows or columns visible while scrolling through the rest of the data. The process involves selecting the row or column that you want to freeze, which allows Excel to keep that section in view regardless of how far down or across you scroll. By clicking on the “Freeze Panes” option after making your selection, Excel will lock that row or column in place, providing a convenient way to navigate large datasets without losing track of headers or important reference information.

The other choices do not facilitate freezing panes. The “Protect Sheet” feature is primarily used to restrict users from making changes to the content of the sheet, while copying and pasting data into a new sheet simply moves or duplicates information without fixing any sections in place. Hiding rows or columns removes them from view entirely, rather than allowing for simultaneous visibility of critical information and scrolling through other data. Therefore, the correct method to achieve the desired effect of freezing panes is by selecting the appropriate rows or columns and using the “Freeze Panes” command.