How do I find duplicates in Excel?

Use Conditional Formatting > Highlight Cells Rules > Duplicate Values or a COUNTIF formula.

Should I remove duplicates immediately?

No. Review duplicate rules first because some repeated values may be valid depending on the dataset.

Use it on one real task this week, then add a sticky note on your monitor with the shortcut until it becomes automatic.

Most shortcuts differ slightly on Mac (Cmd instead of Ctrl). Check the function or feature page for platform notes when something does not work.

Tips & Tricks - 2026-05-12

Find duplicate values in Excel using conditional formatting, COUNTIF formulas, Remove Duplicates, and data cleanup checks.

Duplicates can break reports, inflate counts, create duplicate invoices, and cause incorrect lookups. The right method depends on whether you only need to find duplicates or remove them.

Use: Home -> Conditional Formatting -> Highlight Cells Rules -> Duplicate Values This is the fastest visual check.

\\\ =COUNTIF($A$2:$A$100,A2)>1 \\\ This returns TRUE when the value appears more than once.

Use: Data -> Remove Duplicates Before removing, copy the dataset or confirm exactly which columns define a duplicate.

Conditional Formatting in Excel COUNTIF function Data Validation in Excel Remove Duplicates in Excel

Try the shortcut or setting on a copy of your file first. Pin the technique to your Quick Access Toolbar if you will use it daily. Pair productivity tips with Excel Tables and named ranges for fewer broken references. Explore: Tips archive · Keyboard shortcuts guide

How do I find duplicates in Excel? Use Conditional Formatting > Highlight Cells Rules > Duplicate Values or a COUNTIF formula.
Should I remove duplicates immediately? No. Review duplicate rules first because some repeated values may be valid depending on the dataset.
How do I remember this Excel tip? Use it on one real task this week, then add a sticky note on your monitor with the shortcut until it becomes automatic.
Will this tip work on Mac Excel? Most shortcuts differ slightly on Mac (Cmd instead of Ctrl). Check the function or feature page for platform notes when something does not work.