How to Change Compatibility Mode in Excel (2 Easy Ways)

What Is Compatibility Mode in Excel?

Compatibility mode is a type of viewing mode of any Excel file. An Excel file turns into compatibility mode when it is saved to an older version than the present one. When a file is in compatibility mode, it may face some difficulties in displaying every type of data and formula. For example, any new feature saved in Excel 365 may not be compatible with the earlier version like Excel 2016 or Excel 2013.

Check Compatibility Mode in Excel Workbook

The workbook name has Compatibility Mode just beside the file name.
The Accessibility is showing Unavailable at the bottom which denotes that it is in compatibility mode.

Go to the File tab on the workbook.

Select Info > Check for Issues > Check Compatibility.

In the Microsoft Excel – Compatibility Checker window, the file is saved in the Excel 97-2003 version.

How to Change Compatibility Mode in Excel: 2 Easy Ways

Method 1 – Use the Save As Option to Change Compatibility Mode to Normal Mode in Excel

Go to the File tab on your workbook.
Go to the Save As option on the Overview tab and select This PC.
It denotes the location where the file is already stored.

Select the version as Excel Workbook (*.xlsx) and click on Save.

You will have a new workbook along with the old one.
Open it and you will notice that it is not showing Compatibility Mode anymore. The Accessibility is showing Good to go which defines that the file is in normal mode now.