Paste values only
Copying a formula and pasting with Ctrl+V brings the formula along. To keep just the result, use Ctrl+Shift+V in Microsoft 365, or the classic route that works everywhere: Ctrl+Alt+V, then V, then Enter.
Try it: press the keys on this sheet
Windows and Mac keys
| Action | Windows | Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Paste values only | Ctrl+Shift+V or Ctrl+Alt+V then V then Enter or Alt then E then S then V then Enter | ⌘⇧V or ⌃⌘V then V then Return |
| Paste Special dialog | Ctrl+Alt+V | ⌃⌘V |
| Copy | Ctrl+C | ⌘C |
| Paste | Ctrl+V | ⌘V |
Shortcut not working?
Ctrl+Shift+V does nothing
It's new in Microsoft 365. In Excel 2019 or older use Ctrl+Alt+V, V, Enter.
Paste Special is greyed out
Nothing is on the clipboard. Copy the cells again; pressing Esc or typing clears Excel's copy.
Values paste as dates or text
The destination already has a format. Clear it first (Alt, H, E, F) or paste values and number formats with Ctrl+Alt+V, U.
Frequently asked questions
What is the shortcut to paste values in Excel?
Ctrl+Shift+V in Microsoft 365. In any version, Ctrl+Alt+V opens Paste Special; press V and Enter.
How do I paste values on a Mac?
Cmd+Shift+V in Microsoft 365, or Ctrl+Cmd+V to open Paste Special, then V and Return.
Why paste values instead of normal paste?
It freezes results so they don't change when the source changes, and removes formulas before you share a file.