Tab key on numeric keypad

[MsCynic]

Hi folks,

Like most of you, I'm sure, I use Excel for the inputting of numerical data. It's a bit of a nuisance when I have to put down the papers in my left hand so I can hit the tab key to move between cells.

It would be great if I could turn one my useless numeric keypad keys into a tab key. There used to be a keyboard mapping application around but even if I could find it, I doubt it would work on Vista.

No doubt others out there have found a work around for this repetitive issue. If so, grateulf if you could share.

Jo

 

[Leith Ross]

Hello MsCynic,

You can change the direction of the cursor after you have pressed Enter. This affects both the keyboard Enter and the Numeric Keypad Enter.

On the main menu...
1) Go to Tools > Options...
2) Click the Edit tab of the dialog.
3) Look for the Drop Down in the center of the dialog.
4) Click the arrow and select Right
5) Click OK

Now the cursor will move to the right when you press Enter.

Sincerely,
Leith Ross

 

[MsCynic]

Hi Leith, thanks for replying.

It is great to have that option, but of course both my enter keys now move right, which means now I have to use my arrow keys to get down to the next line. If only there was a way to restrict this right movement to my numeric enter ...


Cheers,
Jo

 

[Leith Ross]

Hello MsCynic,

Since the two keys generate the same internal code, there is no way for Excel to tell which is which. Back in the days of the "Carriage Return" key this wasn't an issue. The computer recognized "Enter" as being for the keypad only. That's progress.

Sincerely,
Leith Ross