Alt + H + M + C in Google Sheets (Merge & Center)
Merges the selected cells into one and centers the contents, the classic way to title a block of columns.
In Excel: Home tab, Merge Cells. In ShortieCuts' key-tip menu: "Merge All and Center Text".
What Alt + H + M + C Does in Excel
Merges the selected cells into one and centers the contents, the classic way to title a block of columns.
How to Use Alt + H + M + C 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 H, M, then C. ShortieCuts runs Merge & Center, just like Excel.
Without an extension: Google Sheets doesn't support Excel's Alt key-tips, so Alt + H + M + C won't run Merge & Center on its own.
Related Shortcuts
| Keys | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Alt HMA | Merge AcrossMerges each row of the selection separately, so a multi-row selection becomes several merged rows rather than one big cell. |
| Alt HMM | Merge CellsMerges the whole selection into a single cell without changing alignment. |
| Alt HMU | Unmerge CellsSplits merged cells back into individual cells. |
| Alt HVV | Paste ValuesPastes only the values of the copied cells. |
| Alt HVF | Paste FormulasPastes the copied formulas without bringing over the source cells' formatting. |
| Alt HVT | Paste TransposePastes the copied range with rows and columns swapped, so a row of headers becomes a column and vice versa. |
| Alt HVB | Paste All Except BordersPastes everything from the copied cells (values, formulas and formatting) except their borders. |
| Alt HVR | Paste FormattingPastes only the formatting of the copied cells: number formats, fonts, fills and borders. |
FAQ
Does Alt + H + M + C work in Google Sheets?
Not on its own. Google Sheets doesn't have Excel's ribbon key-tips, so typing Alt + H + M + C won't run Merge & Center. With the ShortieCuts Chrome extension installed, Alt + H + M + C works in Google Sheets the same way it does in Excel.
What does Alt + H + M + C do in Excel?
Merge & Center. Merges the selected cells into one and centers the contents, the classic way to title a block of columns.
How do I use Alt + H + M + C on a Mac?
With ShortieCuts, press Option instead of Alt, then H, then M, then C: Option + H + M + C. The same key-tips appear as on Windows.
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.