Highlight values

[lordthistle]

I have two columns of numeric values
1 2
10 1
5 8
...

I would like to highlight the values in one column that are less than the corresponding value in the other column. Referring to the example above, I would like to obtain something like this:

*1* 2
10 *1*
*5* 8

where the *_* stands for the highlighting.

I am able to use conditional formatting on a single cell, but since the two columns are quite tall, I would like to automate the formatting by copying the 'formatting rule' onto each cell in the two column.

Is that possible?

Regards

[etaf]

conditional formating should work as a formula

assuming in column A
select the column A
then
cond format
formula
=a1<b1

then in column B
new rule
cond format
=B1<A1

[lordthistle]

I could not understand your answer.

Values are not in full columns, they are located in a range of cells. I could use full columns but I'd rather not.

[etaf]

sorry about that

you do not need to apply to the whole - as in my attached spreadsheet is only a small part of the range

what version of excel ?

assuming the values are in columns A and B rows 2 to 200
then highlight range A2:A200
click on conditional format
then got to formulas
and type in formula section
=a1<b1

and change the format to the colour fill you want or font colour
then OK and Apply

now repeat but this time select B2:B200
add a new rule
=B1<A1
OK and Apply

otherwise can you attach a sample spreadsheet