Extend Selection to Last Cell Down in Excel
This shortcut allows you to extend the current selection downward to the last used cell in the same column. It is essential when working with long vertical datasets.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + Shift + ↓ | Cmd + Shift + ↓ |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
When you press this shortcut, Excel extends the selection from the active cell to the last non-empty cell below. The selection stops automatically at the first blank cell.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Select any cell in a column
- Press and hold Ctrl + Shift (Windows) or Cmd + Shift (Mac)
- Press the Down Arrow key
- The selection will extend downward to the last used cell
Tips & Best Practices
- Stops at the first blank cell below the active cell
- Works perfectly with Excel tables and structured data
- Ideal before copying, formatting, or inserting formulas
FAQ
- Q: Why doesn’t the selection go to the bottom of the worksheet?
- Excel stops extending when it encounters a blank cell.
- Q: Does this work in filtered data?
- Yes, but hidden rows may affect how far the selection extends.
- Q: Can I use this shortcut across multiple columns?
- No, this shortcut works only within the active column.