Forcing a New Excel Instance
When a resource-intensive task is processing, such as a complex formula, macro or query, it can cause Excel to become unresponsive.
![](http://andrewmoss.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2021-12-07-21-58-forcing-a-new-excel-instance-02.png)
This is particularly annoying if you have multiple workbooks open, as you are forced to wait because you cannot switch to the others.
The solution is to open a new instance of Excel. This window will act independently of any other.
Simply hold the Alt key whilst left-clicking on the Excel icon in the Start menu.
![](http://andrewmoss.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2021-12-07-21-58-forcing-a-new-excel-instance-03.png)
A window will pop up asking you if you want to start a new instance. Click Yes and a fresh window will load.
![](http://andrewmoss.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2021-12-07-21-58-forcing-a-new-excel-instance-04.png)