Google Sheets - how do you get the formula from a cell instead of the value? -

Google Sheets - how do you get the formula from a cell instead of the value? -

how literal value (the formula) cell instead of result value?

example desired:

a2: "foo" b3: "=a2" - displays "foo" c3: "=cell("formula", b3)" displays "=a2"

of course, cell() doesn't back upwards "formula" parameter, that's demonstrating intent. i've looked on function list , nil jumps out @ me.

use case: create reference row, , based on reference other cells row. putting explicit row number won't work (e.g. b3 = "2"), since not auto-correct when rows modified. specifically, multiple columns in 1 row relative columns in row, , able alter relative row in 1 place without having edit each of columns.

normally, create 1 row relative set column values this: "=a2+5" , "=b2+10". means column "relative row value +5" , b column "relative row value + 10". if want alter relative row (for example, row 56), need alter each of columns "=a56+5" , "=b56+10". how accomplish editing 1 field?

for practical example, consider sheet list of tasks , each 1 may marked "following" purposes of computing end dates, able alter reference task , back upwards n:1 relationship between tasks.

[update]

actually, have solution specific utilize case. still curious original question: getting access formula behind value in cell.

solution 1: - a2: "=row()" - b2: "foo" - c3: "=a2" displays "2" , auto-adjusts maintain reference rows added/removed

solution 2:

another solution add together unique "id" column , store references id, find row using lookup().

based on comments adaml question, reply cannot formula cell (instead of value).

however, actual utilize case trying solve, =row(a42) can used reference specific row update automatically changes rows.

google-spreadsheet