Excel's AutoCorrect feature is a crucial tool designed to automatically rectify typos and enhance overall document accuracy. It extends beyond simple typo correction, aiding in the transformation of abbreviations into their complete forms, inserting symbols, and rectifying grammar errors. However, there might be instances where the default settings don't align with your preferences. The good news is that you can customize Excel's AutoCorrect rules to suit your specific needs.
Access
The AutoComplete options dialog can be accessed from Excel Options.
Excel 2010 and newer versions:
File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options
Excel 2007:
Office button > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options
Customizing AutoCorrect
Before diving into customization, it's important to note that any changes made to AutoCorrect settings in Excel apply universally across all Office products. This means adjustments made for Excel will also impact Word, and vice versa.
Show AutoCorrect Options Button
The first customization option is "Show AutoCorrect Options buttons." While not visible by default in Excel, this option is available in other Office products.
Capitalization
The next four options are rules for capitalization. Most options are pretty self-explanatory.
- Correct TWo INitial CApitals
- Capitalize first letter of sentence
- Capitalize names of days
- cAPS LOCK key
Replace
This is the last option in the dialog as well as caption of frame with inputs and table of strings: Replace text as you type. The table lists string pairs that define the rules for auto-correction. If you type in a string in the left column, Excel will convert it to the string at the same row and right column. For example,
(c) becomes ©,
(e) becomes €,
Also, you can see that the table contains rules to correct typo errors. Excel allows you to add your own rules or remove existing ones. Fill in the Replace and With boxes to set the correction you want, and click the Add button.
To remove a correction rule, just select the row you want to remove and click Delete. Below are some samples that show how you can use the AutoCorrect to insert symbols:
Additional Tips
- AutoCorrect doesn't function in formulas or hyperlinks.
Changes made in Excel AutoCorrect options apply universally across all workbooks and Office products.
Press Ctrl + Z to cancel auto-correction at any point.
By customizing AutoCorrect settings in Excel, you can ensure that the autocorrection aligns precisely with your preferences, enhancing your overall experience with spreadsheets.
