How do I insert a new row in Excel via the keyboard?

There are two options that I'm aware of, and both (unfortunately) require two steps.

Option 1:

  1. With a single cell selected, hit Shift + Space to select the row.
  2. Hit Control + Shift + + to insert a row above the current row.

Option 2:

  1. With a single cell selected, hit Control + Shift + + to insert a row.
  2. Hit Enter to accept the default of "Shift cells down."

If inserting many rows at once, I think the first option is the best, as you can repeat the second step without having to re-select the row.


The following keyboard shortcut will insert one row above the active cell's row:

Press ALT + I (Insert) then press R (row).

On PCs, use the right click key on the keyboard to emulate a right-click on the current selection.


I found interesting the ALT + I ,R solution, which works in the English version of Excel, at any rate.

I have been using for years the macro below, assigned to Ctrl-N (which takes over from the shortcut defined for New Workbook), but you can assign to any key combination you prefer.

Sub InsertRow()
'
' InsertRow Macro
' Macro recorded 08.08.98 by A C Rowland
'
' Keyboard Shortcut: Ctrl+n
'
    Selection.EntireRow.Insert
End Sub