If you spend a lot of time working with huge amounts of data in Google Sheets, you've probably struggled to find which numbers drive the results of a formula. In order to carry out this task, there is no native function to identify hardcoded cells without an intricate formula. Your only options are to individually select cells or use a keyboard shortcut via the SheetWhiz extension.
What is Auto Color Selection (CTRL + SHIFT + A)?
Auto Color Selection is a shortcut designed to quickly apply color to a selected range of hardcoded cells based on their values. Hardcoded values mean any cells that has only a numerical value in the cell without an "=" sign. For example, =5 would not be a "hardcoded value" but 5 would be.
How to Use Auto Color Selection
Select the range of cells you want to color-code.
Press and hold together CTRL + SHIFT + A
Note: Once this shortcut has been run, it cannot be undone.Â
What is Auto Color Sheet (CTRL + SHIFT + S)?
Auto Color Sheet takes things a step further by automatically applying a color to hardcoded cells in the entire sheet. This is especially handy for large datasets where you want find out which cells are driving the sheet.
How to Use Auto Color Sheet
Open your Google Sheet.
Press and hold together CTRL + SHIFT + S
Note: Once this shortcut has been run, it cannot be undone.Â
Video Example:
When to Use These Shortcuts
These shortcuts are perfect for:
Quickly highlighting raw data for quick analysis and comprehension.
Enhancing visual appeal for team members working with the dataset during workshops.
Saving time on repetitive formatting tasks.
Auto Color Selection (CTRL + SHIFT + A) & Auto Color Sheet (CTRL + SHIFT + S) shortcuts are game-changers for anyone who wants to improve their productivity and make their data more visually appealing. Whether you’re preparing a detailed report or just organizing a personal budget, these shortcuts help you get the job done faster and better.
Try them out today and see how much easier your life becomes in Google Sheets!
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