How to Use Undo and Redo in Excel (Straightforward Manual)

One of the most useful features of Excel is the ability to undo and redo changes. In this article, we'll explore why you would need to use the ‘Undo’ and ‘Redo’ functions in Excel, and how to use them.

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Why do you use the ‘Undo’ and ‘Redo’ functions in Excel?

There are many reasons why you might need to use the undo and redo features while working with an Excel workbook. For example, you might accidentally delete a row of data, or change the text in a cell that you didn't mean to. The undo and redo features in Excel allows you to quickly correct these types of mistakes, saving you time and the loss of critical data. 

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How to use the ‘Undo’ feature in Excel?

Click the ‘Undo’ button in the Quick Access Toolbar or press the "Ctrl” (“Command” in the case of Mac) and “Z” keys on your keyboard.

You can undo multiple actions in a row by clicking the ‘Undo’ button multiple times or by repeatedly pressing “Ctrl + Z” (“Command + Z” in the case of Mac).

The undo function will take you back to the state of the Excel spreadsheet before you performed the action. For example, if you deleted a row of data, the undo function would bring the deleted row back. If you changed the text in a cell, the undo function would restore the previous text.

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How to redo steps in Excel?

Once you have undone an action, you may want to redo the change. The ‘Redo’ function in Excel allows you to redo the action you just undid.

To redo an action, simply click the ‘Redo’ button in the Quick Access Toolbar, or press “Ctrl” (“Command” in the case of Mac) and “Y” keys on your keyboard. You can redo multiple actions in a row by clicking the ‘Redo’ button multiple times or by repeatedly pressing “Ctrl + Y” (“Command + Y” in the case of Mac).

When you redo an action, Excel takes you back to the state of the Excel spreadsheet immediately after you performed the action.

For example, if you undo a deletion, the ‘Redo’ function would delete the row again.

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Note: It's important to note that the ‘Undo’ and ‘Redo’ functions in Excel have some limitations. Some actions, such as saving a file, closing a file, or printing a file, cannot be undone or redone. 

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In conclusion, the ‘Undo’ and ‘Redo’ functions in Excel are incredibly useful for quickly correcting mistakes or trying out different options. Whether you're working on a complex financial model or a simple budget, the ability to undo and redo changes can save you time and frustration. So next time you're working in Excel, don't hesitate to use these powerful Excel functions!

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You can learn about other Excel and Google Sheets formulas and tips that are not mentioned here on this page: LiveFlow‘s How to Guides