That's the way it works for me.

I'd try this.
Tools|Customize (just to see that dialog box)
rightclick on the New workbook icon on the standard toolbar.
click reset

Dismiss the dialog and try it out.

Angie_S wrote:

I would like to click on the "New" workbook icon at the top of a spreadsheet
and have it automatically open up a new workbook. Instead, a side pane opens
up that says "New workbook" or from "Existing workbook". I don't want that
pane to come up, I just want it to start a new workbook. Thanks!

--

Dave Peterson