Function Keys in Excel for Mac: The Fn Setting and the F-Key Shortcuts That Matter
Quick answer: On a MacBook, the top-row keys control brightness and volume by default, so Excel only sees F1 to F12 if you hold Fn. To make them standard function keys, tick Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys in System Settings ▸ Keyboard. After that, the printed features need Fn instead.
This is Microsoft's guidance for Excel for Mac, and it explains most reports of F-key shortcuts not working.
Choose how your function keys behave
Open System Settings ▸ Keyboard ▸ Keyboard Shortcuts.
Choose Function Keys.
Turn on Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys.
With this on, F2 edits a cell in Excel. With it off, you press Fn+F2. Either way, the choice applies to every app on the Mac, not just Excel.
F-key shortcuts documented for Excel for Mac
| Key | What it does in Excel for Mac | Windows equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| F2 | Edit the active cell | F2 |
| F4 (or Cmd+T) | Toggle absolute and relative references | F4 |
| F5 (or Ctrl+G) | Go To | F5 |
| Shift+F5 (or Ctrl+F) | Find dialog | Ctrl+F |
| Shift+F11 | Insert a new worksheet | Shift+F11 |
| Shift+F14 | Toggle Scroll Lock | Scroll Lock |
On a MacBook, Microsoft also documents Fn with the arrow keys for Home, End, Page Up and Page Down.
Function key conflicts
Some F-keys are claimed by macOS. If a function key does something other than what you expect, look at System Settings ▸ Keyboard ▸ Keyboard Shortcuts and clear the conflicting shortcut. See Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working in Excel, Word, PowerPoint or Outlook on Mac? Fixes That Work for a step-by-step checklist.
Why this matters for Windows users
Windows muscle memory relies on F2, F4 and F5 constantly. On a Mac they work, but only after the setting above or with Fn. A worked example is Why Doesn't F4 Work in Excel on Mac?.
FAQs
Do I need to press Fn for F2 in Excel on Mac?
Only if standard function keys are turned off.
Why does F4 not toggle references on my Mac?
It needs Fn, or the standard function keys setting. You can also use Cmd+T.
Is there a Scroll Lock key on a Mac?
No. Microsoft documents Shift+F14 for Excel, and notes you may need a USB keyboard to reach F14 on a MacBook.