Select All Dependents in Excel
The Select All Dependents shortcut lets you highlight every cell that depends on the active cell, including indirect and downstream formulas across the workbook.
Keyboard Shortcut
| Windows | Mac |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + Shift + ] | Cmd + Shift + ] |
What Does This Shortcut Do?
When you use this shortcut, Excel selects all dependent cells that use the active cell’s value, including indirect references through multiple formula levels.
How to Use the Shortcut
- Select a cell that is referenced by formulas
- Press Ctrl + Shift + ] (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + ] (Mac)
- Excel highlights all dependent cells in the calculation chain
When This Shortcut Is Useful
- Auditing complex spreadsheets
- Understanding formula impact before making changes
- Tracking downstream calculation logic
- Debugging unexpected results
Tips & Best Practices
- Works only if the selected cell is referenced by formulas
- Includes dependents from other worksheets if visible
- Use repeatedly to follow long calculation paths
FAQ
- Q: What’s the difference between direct and all dependents?
- Direct dependents reference the cell immediately, while all dependents include every downstream formula.
- Q: Does this work with named ranges?
- Yes, formulas using named ranges are included.
- Q: Can this select dependents from other workbooks?
- Yes, if the referenced workbook is open.