Create names from labels in Excel

Create names from labels in Excel: Select labels and values, Ctrl+Shift+F3, Enter (Mac: Cmd+Shift+F3)

Windows	`Select labels and values, Ctrl+Shift+F3, Enter`
Mac	`Cmd+Shift+F3`
Group	formula

Practice this shortcut

Drill: Name the inputs. Pro drill. Twenty-five drills are free.

What it does and when to use it

Select a block of labels with their values, press Ctrl+Shift+F3 and Enter, and each value is named after its label. Formulas can then read =Price*Volume, and the Go To box jumps to any input by name.

The common mistake

Labels with spaces or starting with a number, which become underscores or fail. Use short single-word labels.

Related shortcuts

Insert a function by name Shift+F3, type the name, Enter
Add a note to a cell Shift+F2, type, Esc
Repeat the last action F4 (or Ctrl+Y)
Lock a reference with F4 F2, F4
Make a reference absolute F2, F4, Enter
The printable cheat sheet

Questions

How do I name a cell quickly?

For one cell, type the name in the Name Box. For many, Ctrl+Shift+F3 names them from the labels next to them.

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.

Start the drill