Cancel Cell Entry in Excel (Esc)
The Cancel Cell Entry shortcut allows you to discard any changes you made in the active cell and restore its original content.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Esc | Esc |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
Pressing Esc will cancel any edits you are currently making in the active cell, returning the cell to its previous value before you started editing.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Click on the cell you are editing
- Start typing or modifying the content
- Press Esc to cancel changes
- The cell restores its original content
Tips & Best Practices
- Use Esc to quickly undo accidental edits without using Undo
- Works for both text and formulas
- Combine with F2 to toggle between editing and canceling quickly
FAQ
- Q: Can I cancel multiple cell edits at once?
- No, Esc cancels only the active cell edit at a time.
- Q: Will this work if I already pressed Enter?
- No, once you press Enter, the changes are saved. Esc works only during active editing.