Symbols using the keyboard

L

Lindsay

In previous versions of Excel there were ALT + functions that allowed the
insertion of symbols using only the keyboard rather than a dropdown box.
Does anyone know if these are still in place and if so, how I might get a
listing of the necessary numbers, etc. to make use of these?
 
N

Nick Hodge

Lindsay

Still available, using Alt+[number] from the numeric keypad. I use the
symbol viewer via Start>Accessories>System Tools and look in the corner
after selecting the character, but you could do it this way.

Enter a 1 in cell A1 and copy a series down to Cell A256 so you have 1-256
in column A. Now in B1 enter =CHAR(A1) and copy down. You should get the
characters in the cells now. (0-32 are control characters and show as
squares)

Now if you hold the Alt key down and type on the numeric keypad 0 and then
the number next to the character you want and release both keys together you
should find it shows the character.

--
HTH
Nick Hodge
Microsoft MVP - Excel
Southampton, England
[email protected]
 
G

Gord Dibben

Lindsay

You can still use the ALT + number to get symbols.

For a list of them run Windows Charmap.exe

Jon Peltier had a downloadable workbook named ascii.xls at his site but I
can't find it there today.

Listed all the numbers with selectable fonts.

I have a copy I could send to your email if you wish. 100k size.

Gord Dibben Excel MVP
 
G

Gord Dibben

I guess Lindsay could use a bunch of shortcut keys to reach all those options,
but seems to me that ALT + number is a lot less work for someone "using only
the keyboard".

Gord
 
D

Dave Peterson

I figured that Lindsay could use the mouse until he (she?) learned what the
alt-codes were. Then have the best of both worlds.

And one way to get to the CharMap.exe program.
Flying window r (if your keyboard has that flying window)
and type
charmap
and hit enter.
 
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