In practically any office job, we simply can’t avoid spreadsheets – they’re everywhere! If you find yourself having to do spreadsheet tasks often, you might as well get acquainted with Excel Hotkeys that will save you time and frustration!
We’ve compiled some useful and infrequently used hotkeys that will likely make your day to day spreadsheeting a little easier:
General Usage:
| Hotkey | Description |
| CTRL + SPACE | Highlight entire column |
| Shift + SPACE | Highlight entire row |
| CTRL + (-) | Delete cell |
| CTRL + (+) | Insert cell |
| F2 | Edit cell |
| Alt + ENTER | Go to next line in editing a cell |
| CTRL + H | Find and replace |
| CTRL + SHIFT + L | Add filter to highlighted columns |
| CTRL + HOME | Jump to the first cell in current sheet |
| CTRL + END | Jump to the last cell in current sheet |
Formatting:
| Hotkey | Description |
| CTRL + SHIFT + ~ | Format cell to General |
| CTRL + SHIFT + $ | Format cell to Currency |
| CTRL + SHIFT + % | Format cell to Percentage |
| CTRL + SHIFT + # | Format cell to Date |
| CTRL + SHIFT + @ | Format cell to Time |
Some other stuff that help
Work with spreadsheets long enough and you begin to wonder if stuff can be done even faster, especially if work needs to be done in a specific sequence. Enter macros – a handy tool that has been around for as long as Excel.Â
In its most basic form, it can automate sequential repetitive tasks. In its most complex, it can become a full featured application! Creating macros can be as easy as recording what you are doing, the possibilities are endless!
To record Macros
- Office 365 version – View Tab > Macros > Record Macro
- 2016/earlier versions
- Enable the Developer tab (if the tab is missing)
- File tab > Options > Customize Ribbon.
- Main Tabs > tick Developer check box > Click Ok
- Developer tab > Record Macro.
- Enable the Developer tab (if the tab is missing)
Now that you know these simple, but effective Excel Hotkeys, go and be the next Excel guru in your workplace and blaze through all your spreadsheets with ease!
Now that you have streamlined your technical tasks and saved time, you can focus that energy on building your personal brand and understanding why virtual presence matters in today’s digital landscape.
Have an Excel spreadsheet problem that requires automation? We create solutions specific to your requirements! Message us on Facebook to learn more.
If spreadsheet upkeep is part of a recurring administrative workflow, review virtual assistant support and define the access, checks, and handoff required.
Quick Answer
Excel keyboard shortcuts can reduce repeated mouse navigation when the same editing, selection, formatting, or workbook actions recur. Start with a small set tied to a real workflow, confirm that each shortcut matches the operating system and Excel version, and keep accuracy checks in place.
TLDR
- Choose shortcuts for frequent actions instead of memorizing a long list.
- Confirm Windows, Mac, and web differences before documenting a team workflow.
- Measure fewer steps and fewer correction cycles, not typing speed alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Excel shortcuts should a beginner learn first?
Start with navigation, copy and paste, undo, save, find, cell editing, and range selection. Add shortcuts only when an action recurs often.
Why does an Excel shortcut not work?
The operating system, browser, keyboard layout, Excel version, or an active cell-editing mode may change the command. Check the current Microsoft reference.
Can shortcuts prevent spreadsheet errors?
They can reduce repetitive navigation, but they do not validate formulas or data. Keep review, protection, and reconciliation controls.
Official reference: Microsoft Excel keyboard shortcuts.
