Move to Next Ribbon Control in Excel (Tab)
Moving between Ribbon controls using your keyboard improves speed and efficiency. This Excel shortcut allows you to jump to the next control without using a mouse.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Tab | Ctrl + Option + Right Arrow |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
Pressing this shortcut moves the focus to the next control in the Ribbon. Combined with Access Keys, it allows you to navigate and execute Ribbon commands entirely with the keyboard.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Open Excel
- Activate Access Keys using Alt (Windows) or Ctrl + Option + Command (Mac)
- Press Tab (Windows) or Ctrl + Option + Right Arrow (Mac)
- Focus moves to the next Ribbon control
- Repeat as needed to navigate across Ribbon controls
Tips & Best Practices
- Combine with Access Keys for faster command execution
- Use Shift + Tab (Windows) or Ctrl + Option + Left Arrow (Mac) to move backward
- Practice navigation to become more productive without a mouse
FAQ
- Q: Does this shortcut work in all Excel versions?
- Yes, it works in most Windows and Mac versions with Ribbon support.
- Q: Can I navigate Ribbon controls without Access Keys?
- Yes, but Access Keys highlight each control for easier navigation.