Abstract: A method for use in an interactive data processing system which includes a processor for controlling data entered into said system from an input device, and a display device which functions to display a spreadsheet shell that is defined by an application program. Data is entered into said system interactively by an operator through an input device, such as a keyboard. The operator selects a cell of the spreadsheet in accordance with the type of cursor positioning mechanism provided in the system. Once a cell is selected, an editing cursor is displayed in the cell at a predetermined first entry position. As each character of data is entered, it is displayed in the cell, just as it was entered. The data is neither formatted nor calculated if it was a formula. The operator indicates to the system when data entry is complete, by pressing an "Accept" key which may be a dedicated key, preprogrammed key, or one of the function keys on the keyboard.