Use the Name Box to View Recently Used Functions in Excel

The Name box is left of the Formula bar and has a lot of uses. One is to show the recently used Function list when entering or editing a formula.

Name Box Recent Files ListIt’s a simple matter to quickly see the functions you’ve recently used in Excel. Enter an equals sign (=) into any cell, then click the drop-down button beside the Name box, which will display a list of your most recent functions.

Every formula starts with an equals sign so this should be an easy one to remember.

Note: In Excel 2008, make sure the Formula Bar is checked on the View menu.

I recently came across this tip in John Walkenback’s book: Excel 2010 Bible (affiliate link), which is a great reference book for Excel.