How to Use Excel Shortcuts Using the Function Keys

By eHow Computers Editor

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Function keys are one of the greatest tools a keyboard offers. They allow for many different shortcuts in different programs. Microsoft Excel is no exception. Utilizing the shortcuts available with the function keys will have a huge impact on your productivity. Some basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel may be needed to understand and follow some of the steps.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Display the help task pane by pressing the F1 key. This is the box that opens at the right of the spreadsheet where you can search different help topics. Alt+Shift+F1 inserts a new worksheet.

Step2

Insert cells, rows or columns by using the Shift+F3 keys. This will display the Insert dialogue box where you can pick the options to shift the cells right or down or if you want to insert a column or row.

Step3

Repeat any last action that you may have just executed by pressing the F4 key. Put the cursor in the place where you want the action repeated. Not all actions can be repeated this way but many can.

Step4

Jump to a specific place on the spreadsheet by using the F5 key. This will bring up the Go To box. You must enter a cell name or a defined range name if you have created one. This is not the same as the Find command, where you type a specific text.

Step5

Check the spelling in your spreadsheet using the F7 key. Highlight the area that you want checked before pressing this button. This is the same shortcut utilized in Microsoft Word.

Step6

Select from the menu bars at the top by pressing the F10 key. You will see the first menu, File, highlighted. From this point you can use the arrow keys to navigate to the menu and command you need.

Step7

Save the file under a new name by selecting the F12 key. This will display the box where you can type the new file name.

Tips & Warnings

Excel has other shortcuts that execute many of these same functions. People have different preferences for which keys they like to use, so you may find these other shortcut options easier.