Excel Data Entry Tips

Short videos show how to enter data in specific cells, fill blanks from above, autofill dates, and more

Excel Data Entry in Specific Cells

When filling in an Excel worksheet form, the data entry cells might be scattered throughout the worksheet. For a quick and easy way to move through the cells, in a specific order, you can create a named range.

In the technique shown in this video, you'll select the data entry cells, in the order you want to use them. Then, you'll name the selected cells. Later, you can select the named range, and use the Tab key to move though the cells, in the set order.

For written instructions for this Excel tutorial, see the Contextures Blog article: Jump to the Next Data Entry Cell in Excel

Fill Blank Cells From Above

If a worksheet contains cells that have been left blank, you can fill in the blanks, by copying the value from the first filled cell above the blank. By filling in the blanks, you'll be able to sort or filter the list. The following technique makes it easy to fill in the blanks.

For written instructions for this Excel tutorial see: Fill Blank Cells From Above

AutoFill Dates in Series or Same Date

After you enter a date on the Excel worksheet, you can use the AutoFill handle to quickly enter a series of dates, or a list will all dates the same.

For written instructions for this Excel tutorial, see the Contextures Blog article: AutoFill Excel Dates in Series or Same Date

Move the Color and Borders Palettes

While formatting an Excel file, you may need to colour some cells, change the font colour for the text, or add borders to a range of cells. For example, to add colour, you select a cell, click on the dropdown arrow at the right side of the colour button on the toolbar, and click on a colour.

If you have lots of formatting to do, you can detach the color, font color and border palettes from the toolbar, and move them onto the worksheet.

For written instructions for this Excel tutorial see the article: Move the Color and Borders Palettes

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