[Excel Shortcut] Insert a Bullet Point Fast (Windows & Mac)

Written by Kasper Langmann

Microsoft Excel is a powerful tool with a multitude of features that can greatly enhance productivity. One such feature is the ability to insert bullet points. Bullet points are a great way to organize and present information in a clear, concise manner. In this guide, we will explore the various methods of inserting bullet points in Excel, both for Windows and Mac users.

Why Use Bullet Points in Excel?

Bullet points are a simple yet effective way to present information. They allow you to break down complex information into manageable chunks, making it easier for the reader to understand and digest. This is particularly useful in Excel, where large amounts of data can often be overwhelming.

Furthermore, bullet points can help to highlight key points or steps in a process, making it easier for the reader to follow along. They can also be used to create lists or to group related items together. This can greatly improve the readability of your Excel worksheets, making them more user-friendly.

Despite their usefulness, bullet points are not a standard feature in Excel. However, there are several methods to insert them, which we will explore in the following sections.

Inserting Bullet Points in Excel for Windows

Using the Symbol Dialog Box

The most common method of inserting bullet points in Excel is through the Symbol dialog box. This method allows you to choose from a variety of bullet point styles, giving you the flexibility to choose the one that best suits your needs.

To insert a bullet point using the Symbol dialog box, first click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear. Then, go to the Insert tab on the Ribbon and click on the Symbol button. This will open the Symbol dialog box. Scroll down until you find the bullet point symbol you want to use, click on it to select it, and then click the Insert button. The bullet point will then appear in the selected cell.

While this method is straightforward, it can be time-consuming if you need to insert multiple bullet points. Fortunately, there are faster methods available, which we will explore next.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are a fast and efficient way to insert bullet points in Excel. The most common keyboard shortcut for inserting a bullet point is Alt + 7 or Alt + 9 on the numeric keypad. To use this shortcut, first click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear. Then, hold down the Alt key and press either 7 or 9 on the numeric keypad. A bullet point will then appear in the selected cell.

This method is much faster than using the Symbol dialog box, especially if you need to insert multiple bullet points. However, it’s important to note that this shortcut only works if you have a numeric keypad on your keyboard. If you don’t have a numeric keypad, you can use the next method.

Using the CHAR Function

The CHAR function is a powerful Excel function that allows you to insert special characters, including bullet points. The CHAR function works by taking a number as an argument and returning the corresponding ASCII character. For bullet points, the ASCII number is 149.

To insert a bullet point using the CHAR function, first click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear. Then, type the following formula: =CHAR(149). Press Enter, and a bullet point will appear in the selected cell.

This method is a bit more complex than the previous ones, but it’s a great option if you don’t have a numeric keypad or if you want to automate the process of inserting bullet points.

Inserting Bullet Points in Excel for Mac

Using the Symbol Dialog Box

Just like in Windows, you can insert bullet points in Excel for Mac using the Symbol dialog box. The process is very similar: click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear, go to the Insert menu, select Symbol, scroll down until you find the bullet point symbol, click on it to select it, and then click the Insert button. The bullet point will then appear in the selected cell.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

For Mac users, the keyboard shortcut for inserting a bullet point is Option + 8. To use this shortcut, first click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear. Then, hold down the Option key and press 8. A bullet point will then appear in the selected cell.

This shortcut is a quick and easy way to insert bullet points, especially if you need to insert multiple bullet points.

Using the CHAR Function

Just like in Windows, you can use the CHAR function to insert bullet points in Excel for Mac. The process is the same: click on the cell where you want the bullet point to appear, type the following formula: =CHAR(149), and press Enter. A bullet point will then appear in the selected cell.

This method is a bit more complex than the previous ones, but it’s a great option if you want to automate the process of inserting bullet points.

Conclusion

Inserting bullet points in Excel can greatly enhance the readability and organization of your worksheets. While it’s not a standard feature in Excel, there are several methods to insert bullet points, both for Windows and Mac users. Whether you prefer to use the Symbol dialog box, keyboard shortcuts, or the CHAR function, there’s a method that will suit your needs.

Remember, the key to effective use of bullet points is to use them sparingly and strategically. Too many bullet points can make your worksheet look cluttered and confusing, so use them to highlight key points or to break down complex information into manageable chunks. With practice, you’ll become a pro at inserting bullet points in Excel, enhancing your productivity and making your worksheets more user-friendly.