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⌨ Excel Shortcut Guide

Lock cell reference ($) Shortcut in Excel

Use this quick reference to learn the Windows shortcut, Mac shortcut, Ribbon path, and best use case for lock cell reference ($) in Excel.

Shortcut keys

WindowsF4
MacCmd + T

Ribbon path

No menu path — keyboard only

What it does

Cycles through absolute and relative references while editing a formula: A1 → $A$1 → A$1 → $A1 → A1. Press while the cursor is on a cell reference.

How to use this shortcut

  1. Open the Excel workbook and select the relevant cell, row, column, range, or sheet.
  2. Press the shortcut keys shown above for your platform.
  3. Confirm any dialog options if Excel opens a menu or prompt.

FAQ

What is the Excel shortcut for lock cell reference ($)?

On Windows, use F4. On Mac, use Cmd + T.

Where is lock cell reference ($) in the Excel Ribbon?

The Ribbon path is No menu path — keyboard only.

What does lock cell reference ($) do in Excel?

Cycles through absolute and relative references while editing a formula: A1 → $A$1 → A$1 → $A1 → A1. Press while the cursor is on a cell reference.