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What is the shortcut key to open format dialog box?

Published in Excel Shortcuts 2 mins read

The shortcut key to open the format dialog box in Microsoft Excel is Ctrl + 1.

In Microsoft Excel, pressing Ctrl + 1 is the direct command used to display the Format Cells dialog box. This widely used shortcut provides quick access to modify various formatting properties of selected cells, including number formats, alignment, fonts, borders, fills, and protection settings.

Based on the provided reference:

  • The correct answer is Ctrl + 1.
  • Ctrl + 1 command will be used to display the format cells dialog box in MS Excel.
  • Ctrl + 1 is a shortcut key in Microsoft Excel to display the format cell dialog box.

This confirms that Ctrl + 1 is the designated shortcut for the Format Cells dialog box specifically within the context of Microsoft Excel.

Understanding the Format Cells Dialog Box

The Format Cells dialog box is a powerful tool within Excel, consolidating numerous formatting options into a single interface. Instead of navigating through multiple ribbon tabs, the Ctrl + 1 shortcut brings all these choices together, allowing for efficient customization.

Here are some of the key categories of formatting options you can adjust using the Format Cells dialog box:

  • Number: Change how numerical data is displayed (e.g., currency, percentage, date, time, scientific notation).
  • Alignment: Control the horizontal and vertical positioning of cell content, text wrapping, and text direction.
  • Font: Select typeface, size, style (bold, italic, underline), color, and add effects like strikethrough.
  • Border: Add lines around individual cells or ranges, customize line style and color.
  • Fill: Apply background colors or patterns to cells.
  • Protection: Lock or hide cells within a protected worksheet (requires sheet protection to be enabled).

Using Ctrl + 1 streamlines the process of applying detailed and consistent formatting across your spreadsheet, improving readability and presentation.

Quick Reference

Shortcut Action Application
Ctrl + 1 Open Format Cells Dialog Microsoft Excel

For more information on formatting cells in Excel, you can consult the official Microsoft support documentation.

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