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How To Copy and Paste in Multiple Cells in Excel

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    Mastering the ability to copy and paste data in multiple cells is a fundamental skill for efficient Excel use. This guide provides straightforward steps to perform this essential function quickly.

    While Excel offers basic copy and paste capabilities, we'll also explore how Sourcetable streamlines the process, making it even easier to manage bulk data manipulation.

    Copy and Paste in Multiple Cells in Excel

    Using Keyboard Shortcuts

    To copy and paste multiple adjacent cells in Excel, select the cells and press Ctrl+C to copy. Move to the target location and press Ctrl+V to paste. For non-adjacent cells, hold Ctrl while clicking cells in the same row or column, then use the same copy-paste shortcuts.

    Using Mouse Shortcuts

    Select cells with a click and drag for adjacent cells or Ctrl+click for non-adjacent cells. Right-click to access the context menu, choose 'Copy', navigate to the destination, right-click and select 'Paste'.

    Special Paste Options

    Excel allows pasting of specific elements like values or formatting. After copying, right-click the destination cell and hover over 'Paste Special' to choose the desired option.

    Copying Non-Adjacent Rows or Columns

    To copy non-adjacent rows or columns, select them while holding the Ctrl key. Copy with Ctrl+C, and paste with Ctrl+V. They will be pasted as adjacent rows or columns.

    Selecting Blank Cells

    Use the 'Go To Special' dialog box to select all blank cells in a column. Access this feature via the 'Find & Select' menu on the Home tab. Choose 'Go To Special' and select 'Blanks'.

    Common Use Cases

    • excel

      Quickly replicating formulas across multiple rows or columns

    • excel

      Efficiently duplicating data entries across various cells

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      Easily creating multiple datasets for comparison or analysis

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      Rapidly populating tables with repeated values or text

    • excel

      Streamlining the process of updating multiple records with the same information

    Excel vs. Sourcetable: Choosing Your Data Management Tool

    Discover the core differences between Excel and Sourcetable for data management. Excel, a long-standing leader in spreadsheet solutions, contrasts with Sourcetable's innovative approach of integrating various data sources into a single interface, streamlining data analysis.

    Sourcetable stands out with its AI copilot feature, offering users assistance in formula creation and template design. This smart functionality contrasts with Excel's traditional, manual formula input method, catering to users seeking a more guided experience.

    While Excel requires external tools for data integration, Sourcetable simplifies workflows by natively combining data from multiple sources. This built-in capability enhances productivity, making Sourcetable a competitive choice for integrated data management.

    Opt for Sourcetable if AI-driven assistance and multi-source data aggregation are pivotal to your operations. Choose Excel for its robust features and familiarity among spreadsheet users. Both tools offer unique advantages for data handling, depending on your specific needs.

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