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To rename a worksheet in Excel, double-click its sheet tab, type a new name, and press Enter. You can also right-click the tab and choose Rename, or use the keyboard sequence Alt+H, O, R.
Three ways to rename an Excel worksheet
Microsoft lists these methods for Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, Excel 2021, Excel 2019, and Excel 2016. Each works on the worksheet tab at the bottom of the workbook.
Double-click the sheet tab
- Double-click the worksheet tab you want to rename.
- Type the new name.
- Press Enter to apply it.
Use the right-click menu
- Right-click the worksheet tab.
- Select Rename.
- Type the new name and press Enter.
Use the keyboard sequence
- Select the worksheet you want to rename.
- Press Alt+H, then O, then R.
- Type the new name and press Enter.
Microsoft presents these as alternative ways to perform the same task; it does not publish comparative speed or usability measurements. The keyboard sequence is an option if you prefer keyboard navigation. Microsoft’s rename instructions cover the listed desktop versions.
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If Excel rejects a name, check these restrictions from Microsoft Support:
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- A name cannot be blank or longer than 31 characters.
- It cannot contain any of these characters:
/ ? * : [ ]. - It cannot begin or end with an apostrophe.
Historyis reserved and cannot be used as a worksheet name.
For example, 02/17/2016 is invalid because it contains forward slashes; 02-17-2016 is a valid alternative.
Choose names that make a workbook easier to navigate
Use concise, descriptive names that distinguish each worksheet’s contents, such as Quarterly Sales or Inventory. Microsoft notes that screen readers read worksheet names and recommends clear, descriptive labels; unique names also make workbook navigation easier. See Microsoft’s Excel accessibility guidance.
Which Excel editions do these steps cover?
Microsoft’s desktop rename instructions list Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, Excel 2021, Excel 2019, and Excel 2016. The same exact interface sequence is not established here for every web or mobile edition. Microsoft’s accessibility guidance separately describes mobile-specific interaction, including tapping and holding a sheet tab and selecting Rename, so do not assume desktop steps apply unchanged on a phone or tablet.
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