To insert a filter in Excel using a keyboard shortcut you need to click in a column heading and press CTRL+SHIFT+L. To un-filter, you need to press this shortcut again. I use this shortcut all the time.
Key Takeaways:
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Instantly Toggle Filters – Pressing
CTRL + SHIFT + Ladds or removes filter arrows on your column headers, speeding up data filtering. -
Works Across the Whole Table – If you’re inside a contiguous data range, this shortcut applies filters to the entire dataset.
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Saves Time During Data Analysis – No need to click through the ribbon—this shortcut gets straight to filtering without breaking your workflow.
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Filters Stay When Toggled Off – Turning off filters with the shortcut doesn’t delete your data or the filtered state; it just hides the dropdowns.
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Ideal for Cleanup and Sorting – Once filters are on, you can sort, filter blanks, or find duplicates with just a few clicks.
How to Insert a Filter in Excel
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CTRL + SHIFT + L do in Excel?
It applies or removes filters (dropdown arrows) on your table headers, allowing quick access to sorting and filtering options.
Do I need to select the whole table before using the shortcut?
No, just place your cursor anywhere inside your data range, and Excel will automatically detect and apply filters to the full set.
What if I accidentally remove the filters?
You can press CTRL + SHIFT + L again to reapply them—your filter settings are preserved unless the sheet has changed.
Can I use this shortcut on a table that already has Excel Table formatting?
Yes, Excel Tables have built-in filters, but if they’ve been turned off, this shortcut will bring them back.
Will this shortcut work on blank rows or non-contiguous data?
No, it only works properly on data that is in a continuous block with headers. Blank rows may cause unexpected behavior.
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.
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