Function Problems

How to Jump to the Next Different Value in Excel

Bushra Parveen Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

Find the next cell containing a different value in a row or column when standard keyboard shortcuts are unavailable or unresponsive.

How to Jump to the Next Different Value in Excel

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Navigating through datasets with repeated values to locate the next unique or changed data point in a column or row.
Observed behavior: The standard Ctrl+Shift+Backslash shortcut does not work on international keyboard layouts (such as Danish) that require AltGr to type a backslash.

Before you start

Ensure your data range is properly formatted and does not contain hidden rows or columns, as this might affect the accuracy of formulas and search features.

Solution 1Recommended

Use a Helper Formula (MATCH Function)

Use an array formula to automatically calculate the relative position of the next cell containing a different value.

The MATCH function, when combined with an array operation, is a highly effective workaround when keyboard shortcuts are blocked by international layouts. It calculates the exact row offset where the value changes.

Select a blank cell

Click on an empty cell adjacent to your data column where you want the result to appear.

Enter the MATCH formula

Type the formula =MATCH(TRUE,A2:A100<>A1,0) assuming your data range is in column A and you want to compare it against the value in cell A1.

Execute as an array formula

Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to execute the formula. The cell will display the relative row number where the next different value is located.

Formula Output: The number returned is the relative position in the selected array. You can combine it with the INDEX function to retrieve the actual text or number.

Solution 2

Use the Find and Replace Tool

Manually search for the next specific value if you already know what the different value will be.

WPS Spreadsheet

Easily Find and Analyze Data with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet offers comprehensive formula support and advanced search features, making it incredibly easy to navigate complex datasets without worrying about regional keyboard limitations.

1. Open your dataset: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open the file containing your repeated values.
2. Apply the array formula: Select a blank cell, input the MATCH formula to find the next different value, and press Ctrl+Shift+Enter.
3. Locate data manually: Alternatively, press Ctrl+F to open the Find tool and quickly navigate to known value changes.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel array formulas like MATCH and INDEXAdvanced Find and Replace tools for quick data navigationFree, lightweight, and features a familiar user interfaceCross-platform support ensures seamless operation on Windows, Mac, and Linux

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't the Ctrl+Shift+Backslash shortcut work on my keyboard?

On many international keyboards, such as Danish or German layouts, typing a backslash requires pressing the AltGr key. Excel often fails to recognize compound shortcuts that combine AltGr with Ctrl and Shift, causing the command to fail.

Is there a way to highlight all differences in a row?

Yes. Select the row you want to check, press F5 to open the Go To dialog, click 'Special...', and select 'Row differences'. This will automatically highlight all cells in the row that differ from the active cell.

Can I use Conditional Formatting to visually find different values?

Yes. You can apply Conditional Formatting using a custom formula like =A2<>A1 to a column. This will automatically highlight any cell where the value changes from the cell immediately above it, making shifts in data easy to spot.

Excel & Data Problems