By default, the slash (/) key displays the shortcuts to the commands on the ribbon in Excel. So, what do you do if you want to enter a slash in a cell? There’s a way to disable this setting so you can type a slash in cells.

To prevent the slash key from activating the ribbon command shortcuts, click the “File” tab.

01_clicking_file_tab

On the backstage screen, click “Options” in the list of items on the left.

02_clicking_options

On the “Excel Options” dialog box, click “Advanced” in the list of items on the left.

03_clicking_advanced

In the “Lotus compatibility” section, change the character in the “Microsoft Excel menu key” edit box from a slash to a different character, such as a tllde (~) or a grave accent (`). Make sure the character you choose is one you won’t be using in the cells.

Click “OK” to accept the change and close the “Excel Options” dialog box.

04_changing_ms_excel_menu_key

Now you can type a slash in any cell in your worksheet.

05_entering_a_slash

Again, the character you entered as the “Microsoft Excel menu key” is not available to type in the cells.