Google Sheets: how can I switch from enter to edit mode when I'm entering data in a cell, so that I can use arrow keys to change something I've typed?

Question

When I first type data into a cell in Google sheets, I can use Home, End and Backspace to edit what I've typed.

However, I cannot use the arrow keys to move within the text I've typed - they "enter" the data and move the focus to another cell.

If I mouse-click in the cell, then the mode changes from "Enter" to "Edit" mode, and I can use the arrow keys to edit the cell text.

Is there a way to switch from "Enter" to "Edit" mode using the keyboard? I've tried: F2 (does nothing), Shift-Enter, Enter (leave the cell)

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– doubleunary
Jan 17 at 9:12 — doubleunary, Jan 17 at 9:12

doubleunary · Accepted Answer · 2023-01-17 09:12:29Z

1

To always use "edit" mode, start editing by selecting a cell and pressing the Enter key.

answered Jan 17 at 9:12

doubleunary

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That's a useful tip for when entering formulas since they can often be miss-keyed or improved on, on the fly 🙂
– graham
Jan 17 at 13:27

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