6 Simple Ways to Add (and Delete) A Column in Excel

Adding a column in Excel is a simple process that enhances data management, making your spreadsheets easier to read and analyze.

Shivangi Vatsal

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6 Simple Ways to Add (and Delete) A Column in Excel

0 min read

Table of content:

1. Inserting a Single Column in Excel Using Right-Click
2. Using the Excel Ribbon to Insert Columns
3. Adding Multiple Columns in Excel
4. Inserting a New Column in an Excel Table
5. Keyboard Shortcuts to Insert a Column
6. Inserting Blank Columns Across the Entire Worksheet
Tips for Adding Columns and Rows in Excel
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Adding columns in Excel is one of the most frequent spreadsheet tasks, essential for organizing data clearly and professionally. Whether you are working on a new worksheet, managing multiple columns, or editing blank worksheet rows, this article will show you simple methods to add columns and rows in Excel, catering to both basic and advanced needs.

1. Inserting a Single Column in Excel Using Right-Click

One of the easiest ways to add a new column in Excel is by right-clicking.

Step 1: Select the column letter next to where you want the new column.
Step 2: Right-click the selection and choose Insert option.
Result: A new, blank column will appear to the left of the selected column.

2. Using the Excel Ribbon to Insert Columns

Excel’s Ribbon provides quick access to many formatting options, including adding new columns.

Step 1: Select the cell in the column where you want a new one.
Step 2: Go to the Home tab in the Excel Ribbon, then select Insert from the Cells group.
Step 3: Choose Insert Sheet Columns.
Result: A new column appears on the left side of your selection.

3. Adding Multiple Columns in Excel

Sometimes, you may need to add multiple columns at once. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Select as many columns as you need to add. For instance, select three existing columns if you want to add three new ones.
Step 2: Right-click the selected columns and select Insert.
Result: Excel will add the same number of new columns to the left of your selection.

4. Inserting a New Column in an Excel Table

When working with an Excel table, inserting columns is slightly different due to table formatting.

Step 1: Click anywhere in the column next to where you want the new column.
Step 2: Right-click and select Insert > Table Columns to the Right or Table Columns to the Left.
Result: A new table column appears while preserving the table formatting.

5. Keyboard Shortcuts to Insert a Column

For those who prefer a faster approach, Excel offers a keyboard shortcut for adding a column:

Step 1: Select a cell in the column where you want the new column.
Step 2: Press Ctrl + Shift + “+”.
Result: A new column appears on the left side of the selected cell.

6. Inserting Blank Columns Across the Entire Worksheet

To add blank columns across a worksheet without affecting existing formatting:

Step 1: Select the area where the new columns should appear.
Step 2: Use the Insert command on the Ribbon or right-click and select Insert Blank Columns.
Result: Blank columns are added, ideal for creating space in large worksheets.

To learn about 5 Effective Methods to Remove Blank Rows in Excel, click here.

Tips for Adding Columns and Rows in Excel

Inserting a Single Row: If you only need to add a single row, right-click the row number and choose Insert. This adds a blank row directly above your selection.
Removing Unnecessary Rows and Columns: To keep your sheet organized, you can easily delete rows and columns by selecting them, right-clicking, and choosing Delete.
Using Excel’s Insert Options: After inserting, the Insert Options button can help adjust formatting to align with your existing data.

Conclusion

Adding a column in Excel is straightforward. You have learned the essential steps, handy keyboard shortcuts, and how to format your new columns. Deleting columns is just as easy. Mastering these skills boosts your efficiency and makes data management a breeze.

Now, it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Open Excel, try adding a column and experiment with formatting options. The more you practice, the more confident you will become. Don’t forget to share your newfound skills with others!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I insert multiple columns in Excel?
Select as many columns as you need to add, right-click, and choose Insert to add the selected number of columns.

2. Can I add a column in the middle of an Excel table?
Yes, select a column next to where you want the new one, right-click, and choose Insert Table Columns to the Right/Left.

3. How do I add a blank column in an Excel spreadsheet?
Right-click the column next to where you want a blank column and select Insert.

4. How can I add rows and columns at once?
Select the cells where you want rows and columns, then use Insert > Insert Sheet Rows/Columns from the Ribbon.

5. Is there a shortcut to insert a column in Excel?
Yes, select the desired cell and press Ctrl + Shift + “+” to insert a new column on the left.

6. How do I delete rows and columns in Excel?
Select the column or row, right-click, and choose Delete.

7. Can I format multiple columns at once in Excel?
Yes, select the columns, then apply formatting from the Home tab or right-click options.

8. Why can’t I insert a new column?
Check if your spreadsheet is protected or if you’re in a locked workbook, as these prevent modifications.

9. How can I insert a new column in a blank worksheet?
In a blank worksheet, select any cell and insert a column using the Home tab or right-click.

10. How do I insert extra columns without affecting existing formatting?
Use the Insert Blank Columns option to create space without disrupting existing data.

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Edited by

Shivangi Vatsal

Sr. Associate Content Strategist @Unstop

I am a storyteller by nature. At Unstop, I tell stories ripe with promise and inspiration, and in life, I voice out the stories of our four-legged furry friends. Providing a prospect of a good life filled with equal opportunities to students and our pawsome buddies helps me sleep better at night. And for those rainy evenings, I turn to my colors.