How to Move a Column in MS Excel

This article explains three methods of rearranging columns in Microsoft Excel. Two of the methods will work for small datasets. However, the last method will save you time when dealing with larger datasets.

3 methods of moving columns in Microsoft Excel:

  • Dragging and dropping the columns
  • Cutting and pasting the columns
  • Moving columns using data sort

Let us begin.


Method #1: Dragging and Dropping the Columns

This method is the easiest way of rearranging columns. To use it, follow the steps given below.

Step #1: Select and hold the column

Place the cursor on the alphabet header at the top of the column and click it. 

The cursor will turn into a dark downward-pointing arrow and the whole column will become selected.

Step #2: Press and hold the Shift key

Press and hold the shift key on your keyboard. 

Step #3: Click on the border of the column

Click on the border of the column. The cursor will change to a four-directional arrow. If it doesn’t, try again until you see the cursor changes.

Step #4: Drag the column to its destination

Finally, drag the column to its destination while still holding the Shift key down. 

You will see the column move to its new location.


Method #2: Cutting and Pasting the Columns

This method is a direct way of moving columns.

Step #1: Select the column you want to move

Place the cursor on the alphabet header at the top of the column and click it. 

The cursor will turn into a dark downward-pointing arrow and the whole column will become selected.

Step #2: Press Ctrl key + ‘X’.

Press and hold down the Ctrl key on the keyboard, and then press ‘X’ on the keyboard. 

You will see ‘marching ants’ around the column you selected.

Step #3: Select the destination column

Place the cursor on the alphabet header at the top of the destination column and click on it. 

Next, right-click on the column to get a pop-up menu. 

Select Insert cut cells from this pop-up menu.


Method #3: Moving Columns Using Data Sort

This method is more complex than the rest. However, it can be a real timesaver when you need to work with a large dataset. To move columns using data sort, follow the steps given below.

Step #1: Insert a new row at Row 1

Select row number 1 and right-click on the row number.

A pop-up menu will appear. 

Select Insert row from this menu.

Step #2: Number the new row

Number the columns in this new row in the order you want them to appear. 

Ensure you number all the columns.

Step #3: Select all the data in the spreadsheet

Click on the topmost left cell in the first column. 

While holding the mouse button down, drag the cursor across the entire dataset.

Step #4: Set the sorting rules

Click on the Home tab in the top menu bar to change the ribbon.

Select the Sort & Filter icon from the ribbon. 

A drop-down menu will appear. 

From the drop-down menu, select the Custom Sort option.

A new Sort dialog box will appear.

Step #5: Set the Sort Options

From the dialog box, click Options. 

A Sort Options pop-up menu will appear. 

Select Sort left to right.

Click the OK button.

This will return you to the Sort dialog box

Step #5: Complete the sorting

Ensure the ‘My table has headers’ box is not checked. 

Click on Sort By and select Row 1 from the drop-down menu. 

Finally, click the OK button.

Step #6: Delete Row 1

Your columns should be arranged correctly by now. 

The next thing you should do is delete the row you used for sorting. 

Select Row 1 from the row number column by clicking on its number.

Right-click on it and a new menu will appear.

Select Delete.


Conclusion

This article contains simple methods for moving columns. Method 3 will help you work with columns in large datasets. Learn all the methods to become skilled at moving columns around in Microsoft Excel.

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