Easing Entry of Numeric Data

A few options make it easier to enter a large range of numeric data. These functions are designed for people using the numeric keypad-which has the 10 digits, the four common operators, a decimal, and the Enter key-to enter numerals.

When you type a number in a cell and press the Enter key, Excel generally moves the cell pointer down one cell. This is fine if you are entering a column of numbers. However, if you would like to enter data in a row-by-row fashion, the default of moving the cell pointer down one row is frustrating.

You can specify that the cell pointer should move right, left, down, or up after pressing the Enter key. To do this, you choose the Office icon menu and then select Excel Options. In the Advanced section, you choose Editing Options. Then you change the setting for After Pressing Enter, Move Selection Direction, change the selection to Right. Note that if you uncheck the After Pressing Enter item, Excel keeps the cell pointer in the current cell when you press Enter.

Immediately below the After Pressing Enter setting, there is an option for automatically inserting a decimal point, assuming n decimal places. If you need to enter a range of figures in dollars and cents, you can use this setting to prevent you from having to type the decimal point. If you enter 123, Excel converts it to 1.23.