ShortcutdrillExcel shortcuts / formula / Repeat the last action
Repeat the last action in Excel: F4 (or Ctrl+Y) (Mac: Cmd+Y)
| Windows | F4 (or Ctrl+Y) |
|---|---|
| Mac | Cmd+Y |
| Group | formula |
Drill: Repeat the last action. Free, no sign-up.
What it does and when to use it
Outside a formula, F4 repeats whatever you just did on the new selection: a format, a border, an insert, a fill color. Format one cell the long way, then F4 across the sheet.
The common mistake
Pressing F4 after moving the cursor with a format in mind, when the last action was the move. F4 repeats the last change to the sheet, not the last key.
Related shortcuts
- Lock a reference with F4 F2, F4
- Make a reference absolute F2, F4, Enter
- Evaluate part of a formula F2, select the part, F9, Esc
- Enter one formula into many cells Select, type, Ctrl+Enter
- Total a whole block at once Select the block plus a blank row and column, Alt+=
- The printable cheat sheet
Questions
Why does F4 not repeat?
Some actions cannot be repeated, such as a paste special or a sort. Ctrl+Y does the same as F4, so if neither works the action is not repeatable.
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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