Excel for Accountants: Shortcuts + Cheat Sheet

Everyone knows that Accountants and Excel are a truly dynamic duo, but working in Excel can be tedious and tiring. While spreadsheets are an integral part of an accountant's day, here at Trovata, we want to ensure you don't spend more time in Excel than you need to.

Without any further ado, here are ten Excel shortcuts that can help accounting professionals, like you, zip through any (virtual) pile of spreadsheets.

1. CTRL + H and CTRL + F

These two commands allow you to find and replace specific values in your spreadsheet. If you are looking for a specific word or value, use CTRL + F to find it.

If you are replacing a specific value then CTRL + H will open up the replace tab of the Find and Replace window. This can be extraordinarily helpful when formatting a template or existing spreadsheet to new accounts.

1. Shift + F2

When it comes to collaboration, Shift + F2 is key. This command allows you to quickly create and modify comments in the spreadsheet.

1. CTRL + Shift + Space

This command allows you to select all of the cells that contain values in a spreadsheet. Need to make a batch format correction? Use CTRL + Shift + Space.

1. CTRL + Shift + {

This command allows you to view all of the cells that are directly or indirectly referred to by the formula in the active cell.

1. CTRL + Shift + $

This simple command allows you to format all of the selected cells as currency.

1. ALT + =

This command will take the sum of all the values above or to the left of a selected cell.

1. ALT + N + V

Use this command to insert a pivot table into your spreadsheet.

1. ALT + F11

Make a selection from your spreadsheet, then use this command to insert a chart from the selected data.

1. CTRL + Page Up and CTRL + Page Down

These commands can be used to easily switch between tabs in a spreadsheet.

1. CTRL + ~

CTRL + ~ will allow you to see any formulas that have applied to a selected cell.

BONUS: CTRL + S

Use this command to save your work. While I am sure this command is not new to anyone, it is one of the most important steps when it comes to saving time in Excel. Avoid lost work and SAVE CONSTANTLY.

Manage Cash in a Purpose-Built Platform Over Spreadsheets

While these tips can help minimize the monotony of data entry, they pale in comparison to the time saved by implementing automation technology.

Does your cash flow management process look like this?

If so, you should try automating bank data aggregation with a cash flow management platform.

If you are looking for real speed, Trovata uses open banking APIs which directly connect to your bank plus AI and machine learning to automate many of the tedious manual workflows associated with cash management.

When you are ready to say goodbye to the days of endless Excel spreadsheets, click here to learn about Trovata’s low-lift, low-cost cash management solution.