Unlock faster Excel navigation with the power of the Alt key. This simple yet effective keyboard shortcut allows you to access and use the ribbon interface with ease, boosting your productivity and workflow. In this guide, we'll show you how to use the Alt key in Excel to perform essential tasks, all without touching the mouse.
How to Use the Alt Key in Excel
Pressing the Alt key in Excel activates Key Tips that let you navigate the ribbon and its features. With this shortcut, you can open tabs, execute commands, and streamline your work. Here's how it works:
- Press the Alt key.
- A tooltip displaying one or two letters will appear over each tab in the ribbon.
- Press the corresponding keys (e.g., Alt + H for the Home tab).
- Continue pressing the displayed letters to apply a specific action or execute a command.

For example, you can use the key sequence Alt + H, S, S to sort data in ascending order.

Top Excel Shortcuts Using the Alt Key
Here are some of the most commonly used Excel Alt key shortcuts that can save you time:
Action | Key Combination |
---|---|
Insert the SUM function | Alt + = |
Insert a line break in a cell | Alt + Enter |
Open a dropdown list in a cell | Alt + Down Arrow |
Group rows or columns | Alt + Shift + Right Arrow |
Ungroup rows or columns | Alt + Shift + Left Arrow |
Function Keys and Alt Key Combinations in Excel
Excel also supports powerful combinations with Alt and function keys (F1–F12) to enhance your efficiency further:
Action | Key Combination |
---|---|
Insert a Chart | Alt + F1 |
Open Save As dialog | Alt + F2 |
Activate the Name Box | Alt + F3 |
Close the workbook | Alt + F4 |
Open the VBA Editor | Alt + F11 |
Open Power Query Editor | Alt + F12 |
Why Use the Alt Key in Excel?
The Alt key shortcuts in Excel allow users to bypass the mouse and perform functions quicker, making it an essential tool for increasing efficiency. Mastering these shortcuts can greatly improve your workflow, especially for repetitive tasks.
Conclusion
Integrating the Alt key into your Excel routine allows you to navigate faster, perform actions more efficiently, and improve your overall productivity. Start incorporating these Excel Alt key shortcuts today to take your skills to the next level!
01/01/2022 @ 08:00
Starting with XL2016, ALT+F3 moves the focus to the Name Box.
08/01/2022 @ 17:31
Yes, true. I must update it
16/08/2019 @ 05:20
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