Help
Keyboard shortcuts, quick start tips, and answers to common questions.
Getting started
Open a file or start fresh
Launch Nought and open any .xlsx, .ods, or .csv file. Or start with a blank workbook.
Navigate and edit
Click a cell or use arrow keys. Start typing to replace the contents. Press Return to commit and move down, Tab to commit and move right.
Use formulas
Type = then a function name. Autocomplete suggests matching functions. Press Tab to accept a suggestion, then fill in the arguments.
Format your data
Use the toolbar for bold, italic, colors, borders, and number formats. Select cells first, then apply formatting.
Save and export
Cmd+S saves in the original format. Use File > Export to PDF for a printable version with charts.
Keyboard shortcuts
Navigation
Editing
Selection
Clipboard
Formatting
View
Columns & Rows
FAQ
What file formats does Nought support?
Nought reads and writes .xlsx (Excel), .ods (OpenDocument), and .csv files. It can also export to PDF. When you open a .xlsx file, Nought edits it in-place and saves it back - no import/export step needed.
Does Nought need the internet?
No. Nought makes zero network requests. Everything runs locally on your Mac. There is no account, no login, no sync, and no telemetry.
Is Nought really free?
Yes. Nought is free during early access. There is no subscription, no in-app purchase, and no feature gating. The goal is to build a great Mac spreadsheet first and figure out pricing later.
Will my Excel files look the same?
Nought preserves formatting, formulas, charts, conditional formatting, data validations, merged cells, frozen panes, and sheet structure when opening .xlsx files. Some advanced Excel features (VBA macros, Power Query, advanced pivot table layouts) are not yet supported.
How do I enter a formula?
Select a cell and type = followed by your formula, then press Return. Autocomplete shows matching function names as you type. You can also click the fx button in the formula bar to browse all available functions.
How do I insert a chart?
Select a data range, then click Insert in the toolbar and choose Chart. Pick a chart type in the dialog and click Insert. Charts can be moved, resized, and edited after insertion.
Can I freeze rows or columns?
Yes. Select the cell below and to the right of where you want the freeze, then go to View > Freeze Panes. The frozen area stays visible as you scroll.
How do I sort or filter my data?
To sort, use the Data menu in the toolbar (the table icon) for quick Sort A to Z / Z to A, or Custom Sort for a multi-level sort by values, colour, dates, or a custom list. To filter, click the funnel button in the toolbar to turn on AutoFilter, then use the dropdown arrow on any column header to filter by values or by a condition (contains, equals, greater than, between), with a search box and multi-select.
Can I force light or dark mode?
Yes. By default Nought follows your system appearance, but you can override it in Settings > General > Appearance and choose Follow System, Light, or Dark.
Can Nought reopen my last spreadsheet on launch?
Yes. In Settings > General > On launch, choose Reopen last document. You can also start with a blank spreadsheet or show the Open dialog.
How do I report a bug or request a feature?
Use the feedback link on the main page or email directly. Every piece of feedback is read and shapes what gets built next.
What macOS version do I need?
macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later. Nought is a native Apple Silicon app, so it runs at full speed on M1, M2, M3, and M4 Macs.
Is Nought signed and notarized?
Yes. Nought is code-signed with a Developer ID certificate and notarized by Apple. It launches without any Gatekeeper warnings.
Found a bug or have feedback?
Email hello@noughtapp.com. For bug reports it helps to include your macOS version, the Nought version (Nought > About Nought), and the file you were working with if you can share it.
Send feedback