Learning shortcuts is a great way to increase productivity. Over the years, I found that not only do they allowed me to work faster but they also helped reduce fatigue associated with repetitive tasks, thus reducing errors.
However, learning hundreds of shortcuts may seem like a burden. The best way of proceeding is by learning a new one once in a while. When learning a shortcut, you should make it a habit of using it as often as possible within a short time span. You’ll eventually find yourself using it without even noticing it.
The first shortcuts someone should learn are a trio available everywhere in the Office suite and in every Windows application I can think of.
- CTRL-X: Cut
- CTRL-C: Copy
- CTRL-V: Paste
On a standard QWERTY English keyboard, you’ll notice that they are purposely located to facilitate and minimize hand movement since they are probably the most frequently used shortcuts.
You use them just like you would with the toolbar buttons, or menu functions.
Remember that “Cutting” won’t change the formula but simply move the cut cells. However, “Copying” the formula will adjust the relative elements within the formulas (i.e. the formula =A1 copied one row below will become = A2).
If you’re not familiar with the difference between absolute and relative referencing, I suggest you do so by reading the following document:
http://www.cpearson.com/excel/relative.aspx
The Financial Modeler
Excel Shortcut of the week – Cut, Copy and Paste
Learning shortcuts is a great way to increase productivity. Over the years, I found that not only do they allowed me to work faster but they also helped reduce fatigue associated with repetitive tasks, thus reducing errors.
However, learning hundreds of shortcuts may seem like a burden. The best way of proceeding is by learning a new one once in a while. When learning a shortcut, you should make it a habit of using it as often as possible within a short time span. You’ll eventually find yourself using it without even noticing it.
The first shortcuts someone should learn are a trio available everywhere in the Office suite and in every Windows application I can think of.
On a standard QWERTY English keyboard, you’ll notice that they are purposely located to facilitate and minimize hand movement since they are probably the most frequently used shortcuts.
You use them just like you would with the toolbar buttons, or menu functions.
Remember that “Cutting” won’t change the formula but simply move the cut cells. However, “Copying” the formula will adjust the relative elements within the formulas (i.e. the formula =A1 copied one row below will become = A2).
If you’re not familiar with the difference between absolute and relative referencing, I suggest you do so by reading the following document:
http://www.cpearson.com/excel/relative.aspx