How to Do Alt + = (AutoSum) on Mac in Excel (Easiest Way)

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Quick Answer

Alt + = is the Windows shortcut for AutoSum. On Mac, download and install Accelerator Keys, then press Option, followed by H, U, S to run AutoSum from the ribbon. Mac Excel also supports Cmd + Shift + T natively.

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Command: AutoSum

What Does Alt + = Do in Excel?

On Windows, Alt + = runs AutoSum: Excel inserts a =SUM() formula that automatically totals the column of numbers above (or the row to the left of) the selected cell. It is one of the most-used shortcuts in Excel.

How to AutoSum on Mac

Alt + = is a direct keyboard shortcut rather than a ribbon accelerator sequence, so on Mac you have two fast options:

Shortcut How Result
Alt + H + U + S Accelerator Keys ribbon sequence (Home > AutoSum > Sum) Inserts =SUM() for adjacent cells
Cmd + Shift + T Native Mac Excel shortcut Inserts =SUM() for adjacent cells

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Download and install Accelerator Keys (14-day free trial, no credit card required).
  2. Follow the simple on-screen setup instructions (just a few clicks).
  3. Select the cell below or to the right of the numbers you want to total.
  4. Press the Option key (works like Alt on Windows).
  5. Press H, then U, then S — Excel inserts the SUM formula. Press Return to confirm.

This is how to do Alt + = on Mac in Excel with Accelerator Keys, the native ribbon and alt key shortcut solution for Mac users who get more done with Excel.

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