Activate Filter in Excel (Alt + Down Arrow)
The Activate Filter shortcut opens the filter drop-down for the selected column, allowing you to quickly sort or filter data without using the mouse.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Alt + Down Arrow | Option + Down Arrow |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
Pressing this shortcut activates the filter dropdown menu in the currently selected column of a table or filtered range.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Select a cell within the column you want to filter
- Press Alt + Down Arrow (Windows) or Option + Down Arrow (Mac)
- The filter menu will appear for that column
- Use the keyboard or mouse to apply your filter or sort
Tips & Best Practices
- Combine with Toggle Autofilter shortcut to enable filters quickly
- Navigate the filter menu using arrow keys for fast filtering
- Use on tables and named ranges with headers for best results
FAQ
- Q: Can I use this shortcut on multiple columns at once?
- No, it activates the filter for the currently selected column only.
- Q: Does it work on filtered tables created with Ctrl + T?
- Yes, it works on any table or filtered range in Excel.