If by using you mean selected, then the only way I see is to
use a macro. If you just want the best way to color everything
but a specific area then I think you already have the easiest to
implement answer.

You can invoke the macro with an assigned shortcut,
with a toolbar button, or from a shape. More information
on installing and using a macro see
http://www.mvps.org/dmcritchie/excel/getstarted.htm

Sub gray_unselected()
Cells.Interior.ColorIndex = 15
Selection.Interior.ColorIndex = xlNone
End Sub

Obviously using does not mean the used range, but I guess it
could imply the current range Ctrl+Shift+asterisk
then you would use either answer accordingly.
---
HTH,
David McRitchie, Microsoft MVP - Excel [site changed Nov. 2001]
My Excel Pages: http://www.mvps.org/dmcritchie/excel/excel.htm
Search Page: http://www.mvps.org/dmcritchie/excel/search.htm

"billy2willy" wrote in message
...

When using a spreadsheet what is the best way to highlight everything
else except the data that you are using. ie turn everything grey except
a1:j10.


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