How to Disable AutoComplete for Certain Cells in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets

Summary

AutoComplete is a feature in spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets that suggests entries based on previous data. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to manage this feature in both platforms, allowing users to enable or disable it according to their preferences.


Microsoft Excel

1. Introduction to Excel’s AutoComplete

Within Microsoft Excel's spreadsheet software, the AutoComplete feature can be toggled on or off for the entire application.

2. Accessing the AutoComplete Settings

  1. Open Microsoft Excel.
  2. Click on the File option located at the upper-left corner.
  3. Navigate and select Options.
  4. Enter the Advanced section.

3. Disabling & Enabling AutoComplete

  • To Disable: Within 'Editing options', find the 'Enable AutoComplete for cell values' checkbox and uncheck it.
  • To Enable: Return to the same location and check the box.

Google Sheets

1. Google Sheets AutoComplete Overview

Google Sheets has a similar AutoComplete functionality that can be toggled on or off for the entire document.

2. Navigating to AutoComplete Settings

  1. Launch your Google Sheets document.
  2. Select the Tools option in the menu bar.

3. Activating & Deactivating AutoComplete

  • To Deactivate: From the Tools menu dropdown, deselect 'Enable Autocomplete'.
  • To Activate: Navigate back to the 'Tools' menu and select 'Enable Autocomplete'.

Conclusion

AutoComplete is a useful tool for quick data entry. With the knowledge from this guide, users can optimize their spreadsheet experiences in both Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets by adjusting the AutoComplete feature as they see fit.

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