Tip of the week # 433
31 October 2014


Use a keyboard shortcut to switch between open workbooks (Microsoft Excel)

The most recent shortcut of the week was CTRL + TAB to move to the next open tab in Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome. But did you know you can also use this shortcut in Excel to switch between all open Excel workbooks?

Here's how:

  1. Press CTRL + TAB to display the next currently open Excel workbook.
  2. Keep your finger on the CTRL key and continue to press the TAB key, until you reach your desired workbook. (In case you overshoot your desired window, press SHIFT + CTRL + TAB to cycle the other way.)
  3. Release the CTRL key.

If you have lots and lots of Excel workbooks open it might be faster to use the Switch Windows button in the Window group on the View tab, but you know how much I love keyboard shortcuts so I simply cannot help myself! This was why back in March 2013 I launched a 'shortcut of the week' feature on our website, in an effort to help you work faster (and healthier). You can find the shortcut of the week on our home page, from where you can also download or print our shortcut archive; see inc/shortcut_archive.pdf.