Keyboard shortcuts

Many users understand conceptually that keyboard shortcuts improve efficiency compared to using the mouse.
Shortcuts enable faster operation in Excel.
While the mouse is more intuitive for many users, learning keyboard shortcuts increases effectiveness and efficiency.
It is encouraged to use as many shortcuts as possible.

Users will build a comprehensive three-statement model with minimal mouse usage during this course.
Rather than providing a comprehensive list of shortcuts upfront, they will be introduced contextually throughout the course.
A set of reference sheets for Excel 2013 shortcuts is provided in the course download kit for easier learning.

The Excel 2013 reference sheet contains the most used shortcuts categorized for better understanding.
Approximately 60 to 70 shortcuts are available, enough for users to become power users.
Learning these shortcuts significantly speeds up tasks, eliminating the need for mouse actions.

In addition to the 2013 reference sheet, there are also resources for:
- Excel 2010: Similar shortcuts to 2013.
- Excel 2003 and 2007: Available for users on legacy systems.
- Mac Version: Contains shortcuts for Excel version 02/2011 and Windows shortcuts for Mac users.

Mac users need to adjust system preferences to optimize keyboard shortcuts:
- Control + Space Bar for selecting columns.
- Control + Arrow keys for navigation.
Encourage users to set up their systems before starting the course to enhance efficiency.
Virtualization software (e.g., Parallels) may allow PC shortcuts on Mac, reducing the need for separate shortcuts.

The course introduces two primary categories of shortcuts:
1. Universal Shortcuts: Common across Microsoft Office applications and Windows Explorer.
2. Excel Specific Shortcuts: Tailored for tasks specifically in Excel.

To open Windows Explorer, press the Windows button + E. This opens the file explorer.
Basic Navigation Shortcuts for Windows Explorer:
- Windows + Up Arrow: Maximize current window.
- Windows + Down Arrow: Minimize current window.
- Windows + Left Arrow / Right Arrow: Snap the window to the left/right half of the screen.
- Tab Key: Navigate between fields clockwise in forms.
- Shift + Tab: Navigate counter-clockwise.
- Enter: Opens selected folder or cell.
- Backspace: Go back in folder history.

Excel Specific Navigation:
- Press Control + 1 to open the Format Cells dialog box.
- Arrow keys: Move between items in the dialog box.
- Tab: Move to the next form element; Shift + Tab: Move to the previous element.

Users can minimize the ribbon for quicker access to their tasks.
Performing actions can be done via shortcuts rather than mouse clicks, e.g., using the Alt key to navigate the ribbon.
Example of applying formatting:
- Use Control + 1 to access the Format Cells dialog.
- Tab through options to apply formatting (e.g., setting decimal places, thousand separators).

In investment banking or similar fields, proper formatting of models is crucial. Poor formatting:
- Makes models harder to understand.
- Reflects poorly on the individual and firm, especially when shared with clients.
Importance of detail and consistency in formatting.

An Excel workbook with comprehensive shortcuts is available in the course materials. It includes:
- General form shortcuts for both Mac and Windows.
- List of shortcuts relevant to model formatting and other essential Excel functions.

Overall, mastering keyboard shortcuts is essential for efficiency in Excel, particularly in professional contexts like investment banking, where unformatted models can hinder success.
Encouraged to familiarize oneself with the provided resources and practice them regularly.