How To Select Non Adjacent Cells In Excel & Google Sheets

Updated April 2023

Selecting a block of cells in Excel or Google Sheets is a breeze, but what if you need to select non-adjacent cells? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will show you simple methods to select non-adjacent cells in Excel and Google Sheets that will make your workflow more efficient.

Selecting Non-Adjacent Cells in Excel

When it comes to selecting non-adjacent cells in Excel, you have several options that are equally effective. Whether you’re using a mouse or keyboard, follow these steps to get the desired selection:

Selecting Non-Adjacent Cells with a Mouse

To select non-adjacent cells using a mouse, follow these simple steps:

1. Click on the first cell you want to select.
2. Press and hold the Control key on your keyboard.
3. While holding the Control key, left-click on the other cells you want to include in your selection.

You can repeat these steps for each additional cell you want to select. It’s an easy and intuitive way to select non-adjacent cells in Excel.

Selecting Non-Adjacent Cells with a Keyboard

If you prefer using your keyboard to select cells, follow these steps:

1. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move the cursor to the cell you want to select. This cell will become the active cell.
2. Hold down the F8 key, which is located at the top of your keyboard. You will see “Extend Selection” in your status bar.
3. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to select single cells, rows, or columns. The F8 key activates the Extend Selection mode, allowing you to automatically select adjacent cells.
4. When you’re done using the Extend Selection mode, simultaneously hold down the F8 and Shift keys. This will switch you back to the Add or Remove Selection mode, where you can add or delete cells and make other edits.

Remember to repeat these four steps whenever you want to select another cell. Turning off Extend Selection mode is crucial to avoid any unintended edits or additions to your sheet.

Selecting Non-Adjacent Cells with the Name Box

When you don’t have a mouse available, you can use the Name Box to easily select non-adjacent cells in Excel. Here’s how:

1. Click on the Name Box, located to the left of the formula bar. The Name Box will open as a dialogue box, allowing you to enter the name of the cell you want to select.
2. You can enter the names of one or more cells, separating them with a comma if necessary.
3. Press Enter, and Excel will automatically select the specified cells. The last cell you entered into the Name Box will become the active cell.

The Name Box method is particularly useful when you know the names of the cells you want to select. However, if you’re unsure of the names, using the mouse and keyboard combination might be easier.

Using the Find & Replace Function

If you’re looking for cells with a specific value, the Find & Replace function is your best bet. Follow these steps to select all cells with a certain name or number:

1. Select the range of data in which you want to search.
2. Press the Control and F keys simultaneously (Mac users, hold down Command, +, F).
3. In the dialogue box that appears, type the name or value of the cell you’re looking for in the “Find What” field.
4. Click on the “Find All” tab at the bottom of the dialogue box. Excel will start searching for all cells that match your criteria.
5. Press the Control and A keys to select all the matching cells. You will see the selected cells listed below the dialogue box.
6. Close the Find & Replace box, and you’ll have the non-adjacent cells you need.

The Find & Replace function not only allows you to select cell contents but also gives you the ability to edit any data contained in the cells.

Summary

With these four methods, selecting non-adjacent cells in Excel and Google Sheets is a walk in the park. Whether you’re a mouse enthusiast or prefer the convenience of your keyboard, these techniques will streamline your workflow. Remember, you can also enhance your productivity with innovative products from Mr Reviews that help you save, share, and protect your documents and Excel sheets.

To learn more about Mr Reviews and discover their comprehensive range of services, sign up for free today. If you need to convert Word, PPT, or any other documents to PDF, make use of Mr Reviews’ free PDF Converter for fast and hassle-free file conversion. Stay productive and efficient with Mr Reviews.

Mr Reviews