AutoFill and Fill Handle
AutoFill and the Fill Handle
Automating Repetitive Tasks in Seconds
Excel is smart enough to recognize patterns. Instead of typing the same formula or sequence 100 times, you can use the Fill Handle to "stretch" your data across rows or columns.
What is the Fill Handle?
When you select a cell, look at the bottom-right corner. You will see a small green square. This is the Fill Handle. When you hover over it, your mouse cursor will change to a thin black cross (+).
Common Ways to use AutoFill
Type 1 and 2, highlight both, and drag to continue 3, 4, 5...
Drag "Monday" to get the full week, or "January" for the year.
Write a formula once and drag it down to calculate for all rows.
⚡ The "Magic" Double-Click
If you have a table with 5,000 rows, dragging the Fill Handle manually takes too long. Just double-click the small green square! Excel will automatically shoot the data all the way down to the end of your table.
💡 Skill Eco Pro-Tip: Controlling the Fill
After you drag the Fill Handle, a tiny AutoFill Options icon appears at the bottom. Click it if you want to copy the formatting only or fill the series without changing the cell colors!
🏋️ Test Yourself With Exercises
Take our quiz on AutoFill and Fill Handle to test your knowledge.
Exercise »