What functionality does the "AutoFill" feature provide in Excel?

The AutoFill feature in Excel is designed to automatically fill in a series of data based on initial entries made by the user. This means that if you enter a certain value, such as a number or date, Excel can recognize the pattern and fill in adjacent cells with subsequent values in that series. For example, if you type "1" in one cell and "2" in the next, and then use AutoFill, Excel will continue this sequence, filling in "3," "4," and so forth, as you drag the fill handle.

This functionality is especially useful for quickly generating lists, such as sequential numbers, days of the week, or months of the year, without having to manually input each value. It saves time and helps maintain consistency in data entry, which can be critical in data analysis and reporting tasks.

The other functionalities mentioned do not align with what AutoFill offers; it does not automatically create complex formulas, generate charts, or protect cells. Each of those functions is addressed by different features within Excel, indicating the specific utility of AutoFill in streamlining data entry tasks.