Delete Cell Contents in Excel (Delete Key)
Deleting cell contents allows you to clear data without affecting the structure of the worksheet.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Delete | Delete |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
Pressing the Delete key clears the content of the selected cells but keeps formatting, comments, and formulas intact.
How to Delete Cell Contents
- Select the cell or range of cells you want to clear
- Press the Delete key
- The content will be removed immediately, but formatting remains
Tips & Best Practices
- Use this to quickly clear data without disturbing formatting
- Combine with Ctrl + Z (Windows) or Cmd + Z (Mac) to undo if needed
- To delete both content and formatting, use Delete Rows or Columns or the Clear All option
FAQ
- Q: Will this delete formulas?
- A: Yes, any formula in the selected cells will also be deleted.
- Q: Does it affect formatting?
- No, formatting and comments remain unchanged.
- Q: Can I delete multiple cells at once?
- Yes, select multiple cells before pressing the Delete key.