Clever Clogs tip # 701
12 May 2022


Three ways to insert multiple rows (Microsoft Excel) *

There are various ways to insert multiple rows and up to now there were two methods I stuck with. This week I read about a new approach and as I like it I thought I'd list my (now) three favourite ways. Find the one that works best for you.

Here's how:

  • Select multiple rows and click the Insert button on the Home tab. No need to click the button's drop-down arrow first.
  • Select multiple rows and press CTRL + SHIFT + plus sign.

Using these two methods the new rows go above the selected rows. Check out this third way, where it's you rather than Excel that's in control.

  1. Select the row where you want to insert the new rows. The new rows can go above or below that row.
  2. Hold down your SHIFT key, point to the edge of the selected row and wait for your cursor to change, as shown above.
  3. Press and hold down the mouse button and drag down - or up!
  4. Release the mouse button before releasing the SHIFT key.

Oh, and look out for the Insert Options button ("Clippy in disguise") if you want to format on the fly.

Finally, I wouldn't worry too much where to insert your rows... simply sort your column once you're done!

By the way, if any of you are looking for a short demo and are on LinkedIn, check out Ajay Anand's post. Credit where credit is due! Thanks for this week's tip inspiration, Ajay!

Related tips

  1. Format inserted rows or columns on the fly: tip_448.php
  2. Don't ignore Clippy in disguise: tip_569.php
  3. Quickly insert a row at the end of a table: tip_599.php

This week's CleverClogsTipTime on LinkedIn, in case you missed it...

  1. 700 and counting
  2. When does the 9th fall on a Monday


* Unless stated otherwise this tip is written for Microsoft 365 desktop apps and Windows 10 users, but might also be useful in Office 2010, 2013 and 2016.