Arrow keys not moving cells in Excel
Normally, in Excel, cells can be moved using the up, down, left, and right arrow keys on the keyboard. However, some operations may make it impossible to move cells with the arrow keys. This section describes how to deal with cases where the arrow keys on the keyboard are not available, using shortcut keys. If you are having trouble using the arrow keys, please refer to this section.
What to do if the arrow keys do not work
Unprotect the Excel
Windows
Access Key: Alt + T + P + P
Mac
None
Take exit from Formula Entry mode
Windows
Enter
Mac
With numeric keypad: return or enter
Without numeric keypad: return
Turn off Extended Selection mode
Windows
F8
Mac
F8
Sheet unprotection
If the arrow keys do not function, the sheet may be protected. Use the following access key to remove the sheet protection.
Total Time: 1 minute
Open a file
Open the sheets for which the arrow keys do not work.
Unprotect Sheet dialog box will appear
Press Alt + T + P + P displays the Unprotect Sheet dialog box. Enter Password.
Unprotect Sheet
Press Enter to sheet protection is removed.
Turn off Scroll Lock
If you cannot move cells with the arrow keys and the screen scrolls, the scroll lock may be set.
Please refer to the following article on how to unlock the scroll lock.
Take exit from Formula Entry mode
If you are in Formula Entry mode in Excel, you cannot move to another cell by pressing the arrow keys. Use the following method to remove Formula Entry mode.
B2 is in Formula Entry mode.
Press Enter to confirm the formula and the arrow keys become available.
Turn off Extended Selection mode
If using the arrow keys results in a range selection instead of moving cells, Extended Selection mode is enabled. Use the following method to disable Extended Selection mode.
The sheet is in Extended Selection mode and using the arrow keys results in a range selection.
Press F8 cancels the Extended Selection mode and allows moving cells with the arrow keys.