Microsoft Excel was originally developed with data entry in mind, but since then, the software grew to accommodate everything from accounting, task management, and financial modeling to event programming. That means it’s not the simplest piece of software out there. To work efficiently in Excel, you need to use keyboard shortcuts and that’s what we’re going to focus on in this article.
Why Do You Need Keyboard Shortcuts?
Even if you know what Microsoft Excel is and you have used it extensively in the past, you still might get surprised with all the functions and shortcuts that you can use to work fast and efficiently. Excel has hundreds of shortcuts and keystroke combinations, but don’t worry, you don’t need to memorize all of them. You will use some Excel shortcuts more often than the others. So let’s focus on the most important ones that you’ll need on a daily basis.
Commonly Used Excel Shortcuts
You’re probably familiar with some shortcuts as they are commonly used across most Windows 10/11 and Microsoft Office apps. Nonetheless, here’s a useful table with the most commonly used Excel keyboard shortcuts that you need to start using to quickly improve your mastery over spreadsheets. These shortcuts are convenient, and you should get used to using them not only in Excel, but also in Microsoft Word, internet browsers, or any other app you frequently use for business or leisure.
Pivot Table Shortcuts in Excel
The Pivot Table is a potent tool in Excel. It can summarize the selected rows and columns of the spreadsheet or even reorganize them. Pivot tables are handy if you have long rows of data that you need to summarize, and they also allow you to compare your data. If you find yourself using many pivot tables, start using the shortcuts below regularly. Now that you know the basic shortcuts let’s focus on other Excel keyboard shortcuts that will boost your productivity and speed.
Shortcuts for Navigating in Excel
Navigate through Excel and switch between worksheets tabs quicker using the following keyboard shortcuts.
Shortcuts for Selecting Items in Excel
Save time by selecting columns and rows faster by using the following keyboard shortcuts instead of clunky mouse movements.
Shortcuts for Functions and Formulas in Excel
Excel is mostly about formulas and functions. Stop typing them variable by variable and boost your productivity with the keyboard shortcuts below.
Time and Date Shortcuts in Excel
Log various activities instantly by using the time and date keyboard shortcuts below.
Editing Shortcuts in Excel
Editing cells, rows, columns, and comments can be extremely time-consuming. Boost your speed with the following shortcuts.
Formatting Shortcuts in Excel
Formatting your Excel data makes it readable and presentable. But that doesn’t mean you should waste time, so start using the shortcuts below. Whether you’re a spreadsheet master or using Excel once in a blue moon, knowing a few shortcuts will make your job much easier and less time-consuming. Share your favorite Excel keyboard shortcuts and combos in the comments below!
