SheetSpeedIn Excel, Alt, E, S, V is a reflex: copy, then tap the four keys to paste values only. In Google Sheets, nothing happens. Here's what to do instead.
Blog · 2026-10-16
Alt E S V in Google Sheets: Paste Values the Excel Way
Paste values is the most-used shortcut in finance. Here are both ways to do it in Google Sheets.
The native way: Ctrl+Shift+V
Google Sheets has its own paste-values shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+V (⌘+Shift+V on Mac). It pastes values only, without formulas or formatting. It's fast, free and built in.
For other paste special options (formulas only, formats only), use Edit → Paste special from the menu, or press Alt+/ and type "paste special".
The Excel way: Alt, E, S, V with SheetSpeed
If you'd rather keep the keys you already know, the free SheetSpeed Chrome extension routes Excel's paste special sequences to Sheets' native paste special:
| Excel sequence | Result in Google Sheets |
|---|---|
| Alt, E, S, V | Paste values |
| Alt, E, S, F | Paste formulas |
| Alt, E, S, T | Paste formats |
Press and release each key in turn, just like Excel. On a Mac, use Option for Alt.
Why keep the Excel sequence?
If you work in both Excel and Sheets, one set of habits is easier than two. The Alt sequences also cover the formulas-only and formats-only variants, which Sheets has no direct shortcut for.
More keys: full SheetSpeed shortcut list.
SheetSpeed is a free Chrome extension for Excel-style shortcuts and trace precedents in Google Sheets. We make it, so weigh our take accordingly.