Moving rows in Excel is a handy skill that helps you organize your data better. Whether you’re sorting information, shifting positions, or simply rearranging, the process is straightforward. All you need is to select the row, cut it, and paste it where you want it to be. And voila! Your data is now repositioned as per your preference.
Excel How to Move Row Step by Step Tutorial
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand what we’re about to do. Moving a row in Excel means we’re going to take one entire row of data and shift it to a new location within the spreadsheet. This could be up or down a few rows, or to a completely different part of the sheet. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Select the Row
Click on the row number on the left-hand side of the screen to highlight the entire row.
Selecting the row is the first step in moving it. Make sure you click on the row number and not just a cell, as this will select the entire row.
Step 2: Cut the Row
Right-click and choose ‘Cut’ or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + X to cut the row.
Cutting the row removes it from its original position while saving it to your clipboard. You can also use the ‘Cut’ option in the Home tab on the ribbon.
Step 3: Select the New Location
Click on the row number where you want to move the selected row.
Choosing the new location is crucial. Make sure that the new spot is where you want your data to be, as this is where your cut row will go.
Step 4: Paste the Row
Right-click and choose ‘Insert Cut Cells’ or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + + (plus sign) to paste the row.
Pasting the row inserts it into the new location. The ‘Insert Cut Cells’ option ensures that the row is added without overwriting any existing data.
After completing these steps, your row will have moved to the new location you selected. The cells will adjust automatically, and your data will fit seamlessly into its new spot.
Excel How to Move Row Tips
- Always make sure you have selected the entire row before cutting it.
- Use the keyboard shortcuts to speed up the process.
- Double-check the new location before pasting to avoid any mistakes.
- If you’re moving multiple rows, you can select them all at once and then cut and paste.
- Remember that cutting and pasting can overwrite data, so be cautious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo a row move?
Yes, you can undo a row move by pressing Ctrl + Z or by clicking the ‘Undo’ button in the toolbar.
What if I want to move a row to a different worksheet?
To move a row to a different worksheet, you’ll need to cut the row, navigate to the other worksheet, and then paste it in the desired location.
Can I move more than one row at a time?
Absolutely! Just select multiple rows by clicking and dragging across the row numbers, then cut and paste as usual.
What happens to the cells’ formulas when I move a row?
The formulas will adjust to their new location. However, if the formula references a fixed cell that wasn’t moved, it will remain the same.
Will moving a row affect my filters or sorting?
It could. If you have filters or sorting applied, moving rows might disrupt the order. You may need to reapply the filter or sorting after moving rows.
Summary
- Select the row by clicking on the row number.
- Cut the row using the right-click menu or Ctrl + X.
- Select the new location by clicking on the row number where you want the row to go.
- Paste the row using the right-click menu or Ctrl + Shift + +.
Conclusion
Moving rows in Excel might seem like a simple task, but it’s one that can make a significant difference in how you manage and present your data. Whether you’re reordering information for a presentation, organizing your data more logically, or simply trying to make your spreadsheet more readable, knowing how to move rows effectively is an essential skill.
Remember, like with any Excel operation, it’s always a good idea to save your work before making big changes, just in case something doesn’t go as planned. And if you do make a mistake, Excel’s undo feature is always there to save the day. With the power of Excel at your fingertips, you can manipulate data in ways that make your work more efficient and your presentations more impactful. Happy data organizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.