We could not copy the content to the Clipboard, it is in use by another application. You can still paste your content within this workbook but it will not be available in other applications.

Anonymous
2022-05-18T13:29:01+00:00

Win 10 version 21H2 Build 19044.1706

Excel 2016 Version 2204 Build 15128.20224

This problem occurs randomly and with only a few cells being copied. The spreadsheet locks up and the only way out is Save>Close and open the book again. Sometimes that doesn't work and I have to close Excel completely.

Sometimes the top ribbon completely greys out and I can't do anything.

This is becoming a significant problem.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For home | Windows

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  1. Anonymous
    2022-05-19T11:32:43+00:00

    Hi BSM#48

    Thanks for choosing Microsoft Community.

    Based on your description, don't worry, we can work together to get closer to the answer.

    According to the category Microsoft 365 and Office / Excel you posted, we can know that your problem is "I encountered an error message when using the copy and paste function in Excel 2016" If my understanding is wrong, please feel free to correct me. I can understand that it is frustrated at times that something goes wrong, and the fact that it has not been resolved is troubling.

    Although there is no fixed reason, in many cases, the copy-paste function in Excel may behave like this. It seems that other third-party programs are calling the content of the clipboard, so this situation occurs. We may need to get some details on whether this problem occurs when using copy and paste in other Office applications. For example Word/PowerPoint/Onenote

    To rule out other programs interfering, we recommend that you try the troubleshooting steps using a clean boot of Window, then go back to Excel 2016 and try the copy and paste feature. Check if the problem exists. For the operation method of clean boot, you can refer to the official guide from Microsoft, click here .

    Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background program is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem. 

    These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by step so that it will help you get you back on track.

    Please feel free to let us know if any updates.

    Chandy| Microsoft Community Support Specialist

    * Beware of scammers posting fake support numbers here.

    * If your problem is not solved, you could reply to the post again and we would continue to provide technical support for you.

    * Please check and vote this answer if it helps as it will be beneficial to more community members reading here.

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