Question
What are contextual tabs in Microsoft Excel?
Answer
The commands on the Ribbon are the ones you use the most. This means some less used tabs will only appear if you need them (these are called Contextual Tabs).
For example, if you don't have a chart in your worksheet, the commands to work with charts aren't necessary.
But after you create a chart, the Chart Tools appear, with two tabs: Design and Format. On these tabs, you'll find the commands you need to work with the chart. The Ribbon responds to your action.
Use the Design tab to change the chart type or to move the chart location and the Format tab to add fill colors or to change line styles.
When you complete the chart, click outside the chart area. The Chart Tools go away. To get them back, click inside the chart. Then the tabs reappear.
So don't worry if you don't see all the commands you need at all times. Take the first steps. Then the commands you need will be at hand.
For more information about Microsoft Excel Basics, please view the full tutorial from the CTL here: Excel Part 1
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