Paste values only in Excel

Paste values only in Excel: Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Alt+V, V, Enter (Mac: Cmd+C, Cmd+Ctrl+V, V, Enter)

Windows	`Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Alt+V, V, Enter`
Mac	`Cmd+C, Cmd+Ctrl+V, V, Enter`
Group	paste special

Practice this shortcut

Drill: Paste values only. Free, no sign-up.

What it does and when to use it

Ctrl+Alt+V opens Paste Special; V picks Values; Enter pastes the results of the copied formulas as plain numbers. It is how a calculation is frozen before a file goes out, and how a helper sheet is retired without #REF! errors.

The common mistake

Pasting values over the only copy of the formulas and then needing them back. Paste values into a new column first if in doubt.

Related shortcuts

Paste formats only Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Alt+V, T, Enter
Paste transposed Ctrl+C, Ctrl+Alt+V, E, Enter
The printable cheat sheet

Questions

What is the shortcut for paste values?

Ctrl+Alt+V then V then Enter. Newer versions also accept Ctrl+Shift+V for paste values in one press.

Why does my paste special not work?

Nothing was copied, or you copied from another application. Paste Special needs an Excel copy on the clipboard.

Learn it by pressing it

Shortcutdrill gives you a task on a live sheet and a limit on key presses, so the shortcut has to become a reflex. Twenty-five drills are free; Pro unlocks all 80 for $9 a month, $29 a year, or $49 once.

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