Tip of the week # 448
16 May 2015


Format inserted rows or columns on the fly (Microsoft Excel) *

In Excel, there are various ways to insert rows or columns. Whatever method you choose, by default the inserted row or column will be formatted in the same way as the row above or the column to the left. So what if you don't want to stick to that formatting? Simple! Do not ignore the Insert Options button.

Here's how:

  1. Insert your row(s) or column(s), as normal. (CTRL + SHIFT + plus sign, anyone?)
  2. Click on the paint brush (the Insert Options button).
  3. Select Format Same As Below for a row or Format Same as Right for a column. Or why not click on Clear Formatting to apply the default formatting.

By the way, the Insert Options button does not appear when you insert copied cells.


* Unless stated otherwise, these tips were written for Microsoft Office 2010.