Find in Excel – How to Use Ctrl + F Shortcut

When working with large Excel sheets, it’s tough to scroll and search for specific data manually. That’s where the Ctrl + F shortcut helps!

It lets you search for words, numbers, formulas, or values in a worksheet or entire workbook within seconds.

What Does Ctrl + F Do in Excel?

Ctrl + F – opens the Find dialog box in Excel.

You can type anything you want to search — like a name, number, or keyword — and Excel will highlight every match.

How to Use Ctrl + F:

1. Press Ctrl + F.
2. The Find and Replace box appears.
3. In the “Find what” box, type the text or number you want to search.
4. Click Find Next to move one by one.
5. Or click Find All to view all matches at once.

Pro Tips:

• Ctrl + F only finds data. If you want to change values, use Ctrl + H (Find and Replace).
• It does not search hidden rows unless you unhide them.
• After clicking Find All, click on any result in the list — Excel will take you straight to that cell.

Using Ctrl + F saves time, avoids mistakes, and helps you quickly locate the data you need. Whether it’s a name, a number, or a formula — just press Ctrl + F and find it fast!