Alt + E + S + V in Google Sheets (Paste Special Values)
The classic Excel 2003-era sequence: Alt + E + S opens Paste Special, then V pastes values only. Modern Excel still accepts it, which is why so many analysts have it in muscle memory.
In Excel: Classic menu tab, Classic Paste Special (Alt + E + S). In ShortieCuts' key-tip menu: "Values Only".
What Alt + E + S + V Does in Excel
The classic Excel 2003-era sequence: Alt + E + S opens Paste Special, then V pastes values only. Modern Excel still accepts it, which is why so many analysts have it in muscle memory.
How to Use Alt + E + S + V in Google Sheets
- Add the ShortieCuts extension to Chrome and open any Google Sheet.
- Select the cells you want to work on (if the command needs a selection).
- Press Alt (or Option on Mac). Excel-style key-tips appear over the sheet.
- Press E, S, then V. ShortieCuts runs Paste Special Values, just like Excel.
Built-in Google Sheets alternative: Ctrl + Shift + V (Cmd + Shift + V on Mac) also pastes values only.
Related Shortcuts
| Keys | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Alt ESF | Paste Special FormulasAlt + E + S opens the classic Paste Special dialog and F chooses Formulas, pasting the copied formulas without their formatting. |
| Alt ESX | Paste Special All Except BordersAlt + E + S opens the classic Paste Special dialog and X chooses All Except Borders. |
FAQ
Does Alt + E + S + V work in Google Sheets?
Not on its own. Google Sheets doesn't have Excel's ribbon key-tips, so typing Alt + E + S + V won't run Paste Special Values. With the ShortieCuts Chrome extension installed, Alt + E + S + V works in Google Sheets the same way it does in Excel.
What does Alt + E + S + V do in Excel?
Paste Special Values. The classic Excel 2003-era sequence: Alt + E + S opens Paste Special, then V pastes values only. Modern Excel still accepts it, which is why so many analysts have it in muscle memory.
How do I use Alt + E + S + V on a Mac?
With ShortieCuts, press Option instead of Alt, then E, then S, then V: Option + E + S + V. The same key-tips appear as on Windows.
Is there a built-in Google Sheets shortcut for Paste Special Values?
Ctrl + Shift + V (Cmd + Shift + V on Mac) also pastes values only.
Is ShortieCuts free?
ShortieCuts has a free 14-day trial with no credit card needed. After the trial, Pro is $7.99 a month or $69.99 a year.