If you want to quickly move to the last cell of your table/data you can press CTRL + ↔ ↕. If you want to quickly highlight up to the last cell of your table/data you can press CTRL + SHIFT + ↔ ↕.
Key Takeaways
-
Quickly Select Large Data Ranges – This shortcut highlights entire blocks of data in the direction of the arrow key you press.
-
Works Horizontally and Vertically – Use arrow keys in any direction to expand your selection across rows or columns.
-
Ideal for Copying or Deleting – Once selected, large data areas can be easily copied, deleted, or formatted.
-
Stops at Blank Cells – The selection continues until it hits a blank cell, helping you avoid accidental overshooting.
-
Combines Well with Other Shortcuts – Pair with CTRL + C (copy), CTRL + V (paste), or CTRL + T (create table) for powerful workflows.
Table of Contents
How to Use CTRL + SHIFT + ARROWS: Move/Highlight Cells
Check out this video tutorial below to see how to use this Excel shortcut step by step!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CTRL + SHIFT + ARROW do in Excel?
It highlights all continuous cells in the arrow direction until it hits a blank cell.
Can I use this shortcut to highlight multiple rows and columns at once?
Yes, press one arrow key at a time, or combine with CTRL + SHIFT + END to highlight to the last used cell in the sheet.
Why does the selection stop before the end of my data?
The shortcut stops at any blank cell—if there’s a gap in your data, the selection will end there.
Is this shortcut available on Mac?
Yes, on Mac, use Command + Shift + Arrow to achieve the same highlighting behavior.
Can I undo the selection if I overselect by mistake?
Simply hold SHIFT and press the opposite arrow key to reduce the selection, or press ESC to cancel it entirely.
John Michaloudis is a former accountant and finance analyst at General Electric, a Microsoft MVP since 2020, an Amazon #1 bestselling author of 4 Microsoft Excel books and teacher of Microsoft Excel & Office over at his flagship MyExcelOnline Academy Online Course.
30 Days - Full Access 
