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How to Select an Excel Cell Using the Name Box or Keyboard

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to navigate to and select a specific cell using keyboard shortcuts or the Name Box instead of scrolling and clicking with a mouse.

Product: Spreadsheet
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Navigating large spreadsheets efficiently without relying on mouse scrolling.
Observed behavior: The user needs to select cell C22 by directly entering the cell reference.

Before you start

Ensure you have the exact cell reference, consisting of the column letter and row number (such as C22), ready before using these quick navigation methods.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Go To Dialog (Keyboard Shortcut)

The fastest way to jump to a specific cell without using your mouse is by using the Go To keyboard shortcut.

This method is highly efficient for data entry and navigation, especially in worksheets with thousands of rows.

Open the Go To Dialog

Press Ctrl + G (or F5) on your keyboard to open the Go To dialog box.

Enter the Cell Reference

In the Reference text field at the bottom of the dialog box, type the target cell reference, such as C22.

Confirm the Selection

Press Enter on your keyboard or click OK. The active selection will immediately jump to cell C22.

Quick Tip: You can also use this shortcut to select a range of cells simultaneously by typing a range reference, like C22:D30.

Solution 2

Enter the Cell Reference in the Name Box

The Name Box is an interface element located directly above the worksheet area that allows you to type in a cell reference to jump straight to it.

Efficient Spreadsheet Navigation

Quickly Navigate and Select Cells in WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet fully supports the same keyboard shortcuts and Name Box navigation as Microsoft Excel, allowing you to seamlessly manage and navigate your data with zero learning curve.

1. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office and open your existing spreadsheet document.
2. Use the Shortcut: Press Ctrl + G on your keyboard to bring up the Go To window.
3. Jump to Your Cell: Enter your desired cell reference (like C22) and hit Enter to jump directly to it.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) spreadsheet formats.Supports standard Excel keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+G and F5 for rapid navigation.Lightweight application that opens large data files almost instantly.Completely free to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate tabbed interface.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I select multiple cells using the keyboard?

Yes. Hold down the Shift key and use the arrow keys to expand your selection from the active cell. Alternatively, press Ctrl+G and type a range like A1:B10 in the reference box.

Why isn't the Ctrl+G shortcut working on my Mac?

On a Mac, the default keyboard shortcut to open the Go To dialog box in a spreadsheet application is Control + G or Fn + F5. Ensure you are using the correct modifier keys for MacOS.

How do I jump back to cell A1 instantly?

You can quickly return to the very first cell of your worksheet (A1) from anywhere in the document by pressing Ctrl + Home on your keyboard.

Can I use a custom named range in the Go To dialog?

Yes. If you have previously defined a custom name for a cell or a range of cells, you can type that name directly into the Go To dialog box or the Name Box and press Enter to select it.

Office Quick Solutions