Have you ever wondered how you can horizontally sort data in Excel? I mean, you can sort columns like you sort rows. Want to know the best part?
So today, in this post, I’d like to share with you a simple step to horizontally sort data. And apart from this, I‘d also like to share a simple tweak that you can do to sort columns in the custom order.
Note: It’s one of those Excel Tips that can help to get better at Basic Excel Skills.
Steps to Sort Columns in Excel
- First of all, select the data you want to sort.
- Go to Data Tab → Sort & Filter → Click on Sort Button. Now, you will get a pop-up window.
- You can also use the shortcut key Alt + A + S + S for sorting pop-up windows.
- Click on the options button → Select sort left to right & click OK.
- Now select the row on the basis of which you want to sort your data & click OK.
Congratulations! You have horizontally sorted your data.
With Excel tables, you are not able to use this technique.
[Custom Order] Horizontal Sorting
In real life, there is more need to sort your columns in a custom order rather than using an alphabetic order. Follow these simple steps.
- Add a temporary heading row on the top of your data set & use numbers for creating a custom order.
- Now, open your sorting window.
- And, sort columns by using your temporary row as a base.
- After that, just delete the temporary heading now.
You seem to know a lot about excel. Can you help with this one? I rarely have a header row and want to simply select the range (usually 4-5 columns and anywhere from 5 to 30 rows) and use the a-z (or z-a) button to sort against the 1st column.
Now for the problem – more than half of the time, excel assumes that the first row is a header row and will not sort it with the rest. I realize I can go to the sort dialog box and un-check the “my data has headers” option. BUT, is there any way to permanently disable the automatic header row option? For the few times I sort with headers, it would be much more convenient to turn on the header row than it is to turn it off dozens of times a day.
Very informative. Thanks a lot, Puneet.
Hi Puneet,
I have not used this technique before .
I have always just moved columns one by way,
Your technique will be far better
Very Useful tip, Thank you
Thanks Brother! Too helpful on daily Job
I’m so glad you liked it. 🙂
Thanks Puneet , I was unaware of these tips. I really like the Custom Sort concept
I’m so glad you liked it. 🙂
Great! Very useful, thanks so much.
You’re welcome. 🙂
The key board shortcut to bring Sort dialog box can also be “ALT+D, S
@prabhaspanda:disqus Great