Excel Insert Row Shortcut (Ctrl+Shift++ / ⌘⇧+)
Select the row with Shift+Space, then press Ctrl+Shift++ (Windows) or ⌘+Shift++ (Mac) to insert a new row above it.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insert a row (after selecting it) | ⌘+Shift++ | Ctrl+Shift++ | |
| Select the whole row first | ⇧+Space | Shift+Space | |
| Open the Insert dialog (cell selected) | ⌃+I | Ctrl+Shift++ |
Pick the row, then insert
Click any cell in the row below where you want the new one, press Shift+Space to select the entire row, then press Ctrl+Shift++ (Windows) or ⌘+Shift++ (Mac). Excel pushes the selected row down and inserts a blank one above it. To add several rows at once, select that many rows first with Shift+Space then Shift+↑/↓, and the shortcut inserts the same number.
Windows vs Mac
Both platforms use the + (plus) key with Ctrl/Command and Shift. If you don't select the whole row first, the shortcut opens the small Insert dialog instead, where you choose “Entire row”. Columns work the same way: select a column with Ctrl+Space, then the same insert shortcut.
FAQ
What is the insert row shortcut in Excel?
Select the row with Shift+Space, then press Ctrl+Shift++ on Windows or ⌘+Shift++ on the Mac. A new blank row appears above the selection.
How do I insert a row on a Mac in Excel?
Press ⇧+Space to select the row, then ⌘+Shift++ (Command+Shift+Plus). You can also press ⌃+I with a cell selected to open the Insert dialog.
Can I insert several rows at once?
Yes. Select that many rows first (Shift+Space, then Shift+Arrow to extend), then press the insert shortcut — Excel adds the same number of blank rows.