Answer

To duplicate a sheet in Excel on Mac, use one of the native methods provided through the sheet tab, menu bar, or keyboard and mouse combination.

Method 1: Duplicate a Sheet Using the Sheet Tab (Fastest Method)

This method creates an exact copy of the sheet, including formulas, formatting, and data.

1. Locate the sheet tab at the bottom of the Excel window.

2. Hold the Option (⌥) key on the keyboard.

3. Click and drag the sheet tab slightly to the left or right.

4. Release the mouse button first.

5. Release the Option (⌥) key.

A new sheet appears with the same name and a number appended to it.

Method 2: Duplicate a Sheet Using the Right-Click Menu

This method works when using a mouse or trackpad that supports secondary clicks.

1. Right-click the sheet tab.

2. Select Move or Copy.

3. Check Create a copy.

4. Choose the position for the new sheet.

5. Click OK.

The duplicated sheet appears in the selected location.

Method 3: Duplicate a Sheet Using the Menu Bar

This method is useful when trackpad gestures are limited.

1. Select the sheet to duplicate.

2. Open the Edit menu from the top menu bar.

3. Select Move or Copy Sheet.

4. Check Create a copy.

5. Choose the destination position.

6. Click OK.

The duplicated sheet is created with identical content.

What gets duplicated when copying a sheet?

A duplicated sheet contains all structural and visual elements.

1. Cell values and formulas.

2. Cell formatting and styles.

3. Conditional formatting rules.

4. Charts and images.

5. Data validation rules.

6. Column widths and row heights.

Can a duplicated sheet be renamed immediately?

Yes. A duplicated sheet can be renamed immediately after creation.

1. Double-click the new sheet tab.

2. Type the new name.

3. Press Return.

The name updates instantly.

Is there a keyboard-only shortcut to duplicate a sheet on Mac?

No. Excel for Mac does not provide a native keyboard-only shortcut to duplicate sheets. The Option-drag method is the fastest workflow available.

What is different between Mac and Windows for duplicating sheets?

The duplication behavior is consistent, while the modifier key differs.

1. Mac uses the Option (⌥) key.

2. Windows uses the Ctrl key.

3. Menu names remain the same.

4. Sheet tab behavior remains the same.

Why does Excel add a number to the duplicated sheet name?

Excel appends a number to prevent duplicate sheet names. Sheet names must be unique within a workbook.

Does duplicating a sheet increase file size?

Yes. File size increases based on the amount of data, formulas, and embedded objects contained in the duplicated sheet.

Can multiple sheets be duplicated at once on Mac?

Yes. Multiple sheets can be duplicated in a single operation.

1. Hold Command (⌘).

2. Click each sheet tab to select multiple sheets.

3. Right-click one selected tab.

4. Select Move or Copy.

5. Check Create a copy.

6. Click OK.

Each selected sheet is duplicated in the same order.

Does duplicating a sheet copy external links and references?

Yes. External references remain unchanged and continue pointing to their sources. Internal references adjust based on relative positioning rules.

Does duplicating a protected sheet keep protection settings?

Yes. Sheet protection settings are retained. Workbook-level protection remains unchanged.

Can a duplicated sheet be moved to another workbook?

Yes. The Move or Copy dialog allows selecting another open workbook as the destination.

1. Right-click the sheet tab.

2. Select Move or Copy.

3. Choose the destination workbook.

4. Check Create a copy.

5. Click OK.

The sheet appears in the selected workbook with identical content.

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