Here are three handy tips to help you work more efficiently in Excel.
Selecting large amount of data
Have you ever needed to format, copy, delete or hide several rows or columns of data? There are two quick ways to highlight the data you want to manipulate more efficiently.
The easiest way to grab all of your data, is by selecting all. This can be done by clicking the small corner box above row 1 and to the left of column A, or you can do the same thing by pressing control and A at the same time on the keyboard.
Another option to quickly highlight several cells together is to click a cell then skip down to another cell in the same row or column and hold shift while clicking. Doing so will highlight everything in between the two cells. If you want to highlight non-contiguous cells, hold down the control key while clicking on multiple cells.
Navigating Between Multiple Files
If you have several Excel files open, you can easily jump between the files by hitting control and tab simultaneously on the keyboard. This will bring each individual Excel file into your primary focus on your screen each time you press control and tab together. This is the fastest way to rotate between Excel workbooks.
Data Validation
Sometimes you may need to restrict the input values of your workbook to retain data validity. This can be accomplished by using the Data menu in the toolbar. Start by selecting Data Validation and then the Settings tab. From here, you can input the necessary restrictions and move to the Input Message tab to set up any needed prompts. This is a great way to ensure other users enter valid values into a cell.
Hopefully, these tips can help you be more efficient with your everyday tasks!
Author: Greg Sellers
Greg is the Sr. Manager of Network Operations within the Information Technology Services division, and has been with MFA Oil Company since 2013.