How to Use Paste Special in Microsoft Excel 2007

The Paste Special feature in Microsoft Excel gives you the power to perform a variety of little-known functions. From creating connected formulas and performing mathematical operations to transposing data, Paste Special is a feature every Excel user can benefit from learning about.

Instructions

1. 

   Select the data you would like to work with and choose "Copy." Copying can be performed by right clicking your mouse on the area or clicking the copy icon in the Home Tab of the Ribbon. The Ribbon is the group of icons and tools located directly above the work area.

2. 

   Click the "Paste" drop-down menu located in the Home tab on the Ribbon. Select "Paste Special."

3. Click on the cell or range of cells you would like your data to affect and click the
   "Paste" drop-down menu again. Choose "Paste Special."

4. 

   Choose the function you would like to perform from the "Paste Special" dialog box and click "OK." Your function will be performed as directed. There are numerous options available. For example, you can transpose a list of data to appear in reverse order. You can paste the copied value into another sheet or workbook and link them so that it automatically updates each time you edit the original cell.