Tip, tricks, and updates for Windows & MS Office
Excel Function Keys
In the past, we have talked about lots of different shortcuts to use in Excel. Today, though, I thought it would be fun to go over what the Function keys do. You know, those “F” keys that run across the top of your keyboard? I think they just do not get enough attention. So let’s start at the top, shall we?
F1 by itself opens the Help task pane. In Excel 2007, Ctrl+F1 shows or hides the Ribbon. In 2003, it shows or hides the current task pane. Alt+F1 creates a quick chart using data that is selected, and Alt+Shift+F1 inserts a brand new worksheet.
F2 moves the cursor to the end of the selected cell, and Shift+F2 adds a comment. F3 opens the Paste Name box, and Shift+F3 is a quick way to insert a function.
F4 will repeat your last action, while Ctrl+F4 closes your window. F5 opens the Go To dialog, and Ctrl+F5 restores the window size.
In Excel 2003, F6 switches to the task pane or second window, if you have a split pane. In 2007, it toggles between the sheet, the Ribbon, the task pane and the zoom controls. If you have a split pane, that will be in there between the Ribbon and the task pane.
F7 brings up Spell Check. F8 turns on (or off) extended mode, allowing you to use your arrow keys to select cells. F9 calculates all open workbooks, and Shift+F9 calculates the active worksheet.
F10 turns key tips on or off, which allows you to move around the toolbar or Ribbon with your arrow keys. Ctrl+F10 maximizes or restores the window. F11 (one of my personal faves) creates an instant chart. Finally, F12 brings up the Save As dialog.
And a partridge in a pear tree!!!
See you online!
Tricia Goss, Editor
tricia@officeusers.org
Your Office Answers are Here!
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