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How to Paste Values in Excel Using Keyboard Shortcuts

John Wilson Oct 13, 2026 871 views

Question details

The user needs to find effective keyboard shortcuts to paste values in Excel, as recent updates have changed previous ribbon-based shortcut combinations.

How to Paste Values in Excel Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Copying data that contains formulas or heavy formatting and pasting only the raw values into a new cell or spreadsheet.
Observed behavior: Users experience difficulties because the familiar sequential shortcuts for pasting values (like Ctrl+Alt+H+V+V) have changed to Shift+Alt+H+V+V, requiring new and faster methods to achieve the same result.

Before you start

Make sure you have already copied your target data to the clipboard by selecting the cells and pressing Ctrl+C before attempting any paste shortcuts.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Direct Paste Values Shortcut (Newer Excel Versions)

This is the fastest method available in Microsoft 365 and newer versions of Excel to paste plain text or values directly.

In recent updates, Microsoft introduced a dedicated shortcut for pasting values and unformatted text, streamlining the process significantly.

Select the Destination Cell

Click on the specific cell where you want the pasted values to begin.

Press Ctrl+Shift+V

Hold down Ctrl and Shift, then press V. The data will instantly appear without any of the original formulas or formatting.

Use the Direct Paste Values Shortcut (Newer Excel Versions)

Version Compatibility: If Ctrl+Shift+V does not work, you are likely using an older version of Excel. In that case, use the Paste Special dialog method below.

Solution 2

Use the Paste Special Dialog Shortcut

This method opens the Paste Special menu and works universally across almost all versions of Excel.

Solution 3

Use the Legacy Alt Key Sequence

A traditional sequential shortcut that activates the old menu commands to paste values without needing the mouse.

Efficient Data Management

Easily Paste Values Without Formatting in WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet provides a lightweight, highly compatible environment for your data tasks. You can quickly paste values without formatting using simple, stable shortcuts, saving you from workflow disruptions caused by unexpected software updates.

1. Copy Your Data: Highlight the cells containing the original formulas or formatted data and press Ctrl+C.
2. Select Destination: Click on the blank cell where you want to paste the unformatted values.
3. Paste as Values: Use the Ctrl+Shift+V shortcut, or simply right-click the cell and select the 'Paste as Values' clipboard icon from the context menu.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) files and formulasStable and intuitive keyboard shortcuts for rapid data entryFree, lightweight alternative to heavy office software suitesFamiliar user interface ensuring zero learning curve

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my usual paste values shortcut change in Excel?

Microsoft occasionally updates keyboard shortcuts to streamline operations, resolve conflicts, or add new features. For instance, recent Microsoft 365 updates introduced Ctrl+Shift+V for pasting plain text and values directly, which shifted some older ribbon-based Alt sequences.

Can I create a custom 1-click shortcut for pasting values in Excel?

Yes, you can add the 'Paste Values' command to your Quick Access Toolbar (QAT). If you place it as the first icon on the QAT from the left, you can simply press Alt + 1 to paste values instantly without navigating menus.

How do I paste values using keyboard shortcuts on a Mac?

On a Mac running a newer version of Excel, you can press Cmd+Shift+V to paste values directly. Alternatively, use Cmd+Ctrl+V to open the Paste Special dialog, choose Values, and press Return.

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