Selection · original practice scenario
Select direct inputs of a formula
Put 5 in B2, =B2*3 in C2 and =C2+2 in D2. Select D2.
Start here: A selected formula cell outside edit mode
Direct inputs and all ancestors are different operations. Other sheets and compound references need separate checks.
Follow these instructions in your own desktop Excel workbook. This page explains the operation; it does not send commands to Excel.
Windows keys and context
The Mac publisher Control+[ and Microsoft Control+Shift+[ entries conflict. The Mac binding remains withheld pending native verification.
Ctrl+[
Publisher-documented binding. Native desktop execution has not been tested.
Desktop key table and operation notes; reviewed 2026-10-18. Exceljet publisher reference ↗
Walk through the operation
- Confirm D2 holds =C2+2 and the text editor is closed.
- Use the listed chord once.
- Inspect C2 as the direct input, and distinguish B2 as an indirect input through C2.
Instruction 1 of 3: Confirm D2 holds =C2+2 and the text editor is closed.
Expected result: C2 is the selected direct precedent of D2 in this example.
Recall the keys
Which listed Windows combination or sequence starts this operation in the context above?
Related walkthroughs
- Extend a rectangular selection to a clicked cell
- Add a separate cell or range to a selection
- Select nonadjacent worksheet tabs
- Select adjacent worksheet tabs
Catalog updated 2026-10-18. US keyboard notation: + joins held keys; commas separate successive presses. Function keys may require Fn. Desktop instructions are separate from this browser's own keyboard shortcuts.