How to Fill Down in Google Sheets
Google Sheets offers a convenient feature known as ‘fill down,’ which allows users to easily copy data or formulas to adjacent cells vertically. Ideal for both beginners and experienced spreadsheet users, this guide demonstrates the quick steps to effectively use the fill down function.
How to Fill Down in Google Sheets
Filling down data in Google Sheets allows you to quickly replicate the contents of a cell or a group of cells downward with just a few clicks. Let’s walk through the process of using the ‘Fill Down’ function in Google Sheets.
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Step 1. Select the Cell or Cells
The initial step involves selecting the cell or cells whose contents you want to copy down. Click on the desired cell and drag your cursor to include additional cells if needed.
For an entire column, simply click on the column header. It’s important to remember that the ‘Fill Down’ function will duplicate the content from the top cell in your selection to the cells below. Therefore, ensure that the correct cell or cells are selected at the top of your range.
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Step 2. Use the ‘Fill Down’ Command
After making your selection, you can apply the ‘Fill Down’ command. Alternatively, for a faster approach, especially with larger data sets, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+D (on Windows) or Command+D (on Mac). This shortcut triggers the ‘Fill Down’ command instantly, making it a preferred method among frequent Google Sheets users for its speed and convenience.
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FAQs
What does ‘Fill Down’ do in Google Sheets?
‘Fill Down’ copies the content of a selected cell or cells vertically downward in a column.
How can I quickly fill down a formula or data in a column?
Select the cell with the formula or data, then use Ctrl+D (Command+D on Mac) to fill it down the column.
Is it possible to fill down data across multiple columns at once?
Yes, select the range across multiple columns and use the ‘Fill Down’ command to replicate the data vertically in each column.
Can ‘Fill Down’ be used for a specific number of rows?
Yes, select the cell and drag down to cover the specific number of rows you want to fill, then apply the ‘Fill Down’ command.
Does ‘Fill Down’ in Google Sheets only copy formulas, or does it copy formatting too?
‘Fill Down’ primarily duplicates the content and formulas, but not the cell formatting.