Paste Values Only function should be in Excel

Question

I would like Excel to have a built-in option that lets me set Paste Values Only as the default paste behavior when I press Ctrl + V.

In my daily work, I often copy data from formulas, tables, websites, or other workbooks. However, when I paste the data into Excel, it may also bring unnecessary formatting, formulas, colors, borders, or conditional formatting. This can take extra time to clean up and may also cause mistakes in reports or data files.

I know that Excel already supports Paste Special and Paste Values, but it would be very helpful if Microsoft added a simple default paste setting.

Answer 1

Dear @Bricks Bully,

Thank you for your feedback and for clearly explaining your workflow.

I understand how important it is to paste data as values only, especially when working with content copied from formulas, external sources, or formatted tables. At this time, Excel does not provide a built‑in setting to make “Paste Values” (Ctrl + Alt + V >V) the default behavior for Ctrl + V.

However, I’d like to suggest a practical workaround you can use:

Use a Shortcut for Paste Values

You can quickly paste values using:

1. Windows: Ctrl + shift + V, then press V, then Enter
2. If you prefer a faster shortcut:
   • Add “Paste Values” to the Quick Access Toolbar (QAT)
   • Then use Alt + [number] (e.g., Alt + 1) to paste values instantly

Please refer to this document: Customize the Quick Access Toolbar
Since this is a highly requested feature, the best way to help Microsoft prioritize it is to submit feedback directly within the application:

1. In Excel, go to the Help tab.
2. Select Feedback.
3. Click Suggest a feature and describe why having a "Default Paste Values" setting would improve your productivity.

Or you can visit the Microsoft Feedback Portal: Ideas · Community 

• Click Send Feedback, describe your idea in detail.
• Upvote similar suggestions to help prioritize this feature request.

Please note that as community moderators, we cannot change product design, but I can guide you to the right channel, so your feedback reaches the engineering team.

I appreciate your patience and hope these workarounds help you manage your data more effectively until such a feature is implemented.

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