There are actually three main keyboard shortcuts for merging cells in Excel, depending on the desired outcome:

1. Merge & Center (Shortcut: Alt + H + M + C):

This is the most common shortcut used to merge cells and center the content within the merged cell.

2. Merge Across (Shortcut: Alt + H + M + A):

This shortcut merges selected cells and aligns the content to the right side of the merged cell.

3. Merge Cells (Shortcut: Alt + H + M + M):

This shortcut simply merges the selected cells without any specific alignment applied. The content will appear stacked within the merged cell unless you adjust the alignment manually.

Here’s a quick breakdown for your reference:

• Shortcut | Action | Alignment *—|—|—|
• Alt + H + M + C | Merge & Center | Centered
• Alt + H + M + A | Merge Across | Right-aligned
• Alt + H + M + M | Merge Cells | No specific alignment (stacked content)

Using these shortcuts:

1. Select the cells you want to merge.
2. Press and hold the Alt key.
3. While holding Alt, press the H key, then M, and finally the desired letter (C for Center, A for Align Right, or M for Merge only).

Additional Tips:

• You can also achieve merging through the Excel ribbon. Navigate to the “Home” tab, locate the “Alignment” group, and find the “Merge & Center” or “Merge Cells” options.
• If you accidentally merge cells and want to undo it, press Ctrl+Z to undo the last action.