Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
In desktop Excel, F4 has two different uses depending on what you are doing: while editing a formula, it cycles the selected cell reference between relative, absolute, and mixed forms; outside formula editing, it can repeat the last action if that action is repeatable. The shortcut differs on Mac and in Excel for the web.
F4 at a glance: the task and platform matter
| Where and what you are doing | Shortcut documented by Microsoft | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Windows desktop Excel, with a cell reference selected while editing a formula | F4 | Cycles the selected reference type. |
| Windows desktop Excel, after a repeatable action | F4 or Ctrl+Y | Repeats a simple action when repetition is available. |
| Mac desktop Excel, with a reference selected in a formula | Command+T | Cycles reference types in the Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, and Excel 2021 Mac editions listed by Microsoft. |
| Mac desktop Excel, after a repeatable action | Command+Y | Repeats a simple action. |
| Excel for the web, after a repeatable action | Ctrl+Y | Repeats a simple action; Microsoft notes advanced options are available in desktop Excel. |
Microsoft’s shortcut guidance lists F4 for reference cycling in Excel, while its Mac-specific guidance gives Command+T for the Mac editions named above. See Microsoft’s Excel keyboard-shortcut list and its Mac reference instructions for their respective details. Repeat behavior is covered in Microsoft’s guidance on undoing, redoing, or repeating an action.
How F4 changes formula references
A formula reference tells Excel which cell or range to use. Its dollar signs determine whether the column, row, both, or neither stays fixed when you copy the formula.
| Reference form | Type | What stays fixed when copied |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Relative | Neither the column nor the row. |
| $A$1 | Absolute | Both the column and the row. |
| $A1 | Mixed | The column; the row can change. |
| A$1 | Mixed | The row; the column can change. |
For example, if a formula in D4 refers to B4 and you copy it down one row, the relative reference changes to B5. If the formula must keep pointing to B4, make it $B$4. Use $B4 if the column must remain B while the row follows the formula, or B$4 if the row must remain 4 while the column follows it.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Cycle a reference while editing
- Start editing the formula in the formula bar or in the cell.
- Select the reference you want to change, such as B4. Make sure the reference itself is selected rather than leaving the cursor elsewhere in the formula.
- Press F4 on Windows desktop Excel, or Command+T on the Mac editions covered by Microsoft’s Mac instructions.
- Check the formula to confirm the dollar signs now lock the intended row, column, or both before accepting it.
A common cycle is A1 → $A$1 → A$1 → $A1 → A1. The form shown next depends on the reference’s starting form, so do not assume a press always produces the same next form. Verify the formula after each press. Microsoft’s instructions explain relative, absolute, and mixed references.
When F4 repeats an action
When you are not cycling a formula reference, F4 can repeat a simple prior action if that action supports repetition. Microsoft gives a paste operation as an example. Ctrl+Y can also repeat a simple action in desktop Excel; the Repeat command is not on the Quick Access Toolbar by default, though you can add it.
Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Not every operation can be repeated. Microsoft specifically notes that using a function in a cell is one example of an action that cannot be repeated. If an action does not repeat, the limitation may be the action rather than the key.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
If F4 does not work
- For a formula reference: Confirm you are editing the formula and have selected the cell reference. On Mac, use Command+T for reference cycling as documented for the listed editions.
- For a repeat action on Windows: Try Ctrl+Y. If F4 itself appears unresponsive, Microsoft says the keyboard may require F-Lock or Fn with F4.
- For a repeat action on Mac: Use Command+Y, not Command+T; Command+T is the reference-cycling shortcut in the Mac instructions.
- In Excel for the web: Use Ctrl+Y for a simple repeat action. Microsoft’s guidance points to desktop Excel for advanced options.
- If the action still will not repeat: It may not be repeatable, as with entering a function in a cell.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
