Extend Selection One Cell Right in Excel (Shift + Right Arrow)
This shortcut allows you to extend the current selection one cell to the right in Excel. It is useful when selecting data step-by-step without using the mouse.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Shift + → | Shift + → |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
Pressing this shortcut expands the current selection by one cell to the right while keeping the original starting cell selected.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Select a starting cell
- Press Shift + Right Arrow
- The selection extends one cell to the right
- Repeat the shortcut to extend further
Tips & Best Practices
- Use for precise selection of small data ranges
- Combine with Ctrl + Shift + Right Arrow to select large data blocks
- Works in tables, ranges, and blank cells
FAQ
- Q: Does this shortcut work on merged cells?
- It may behave unpredictably on merged cells. Avoid merged cells for best results.
- Q: Can I reduce the selection?
- Yes, use Shift + Left Arrow to shrink the selection.
- Q: Is this shortcut the same on Mac?
- Yes, the shortcut works the same on Windows and Mac.