Why does the "format cells" menu become inaccesibl

[mason_four]

Every now and then, when I am working on an Excel spreadsheet, when I go to change the format of a cell, the Format Cells menu becomes inaccessible. when I try to select the menu, a "cross" icon appears and nothing happens.

What am I doing wrong?

 

[XLGibbs]

If you are "in" and active cell ,either editing a formula or text, the editing menus are not available until you hit enter or escape.

Alternately, is there is any code in your workbook? If code is being executied (like a sheet change event or something) it could disabling the sheet.

Also, the sheet may be protected (Tools>Protection>Unprotect Sheet)