For example, type an 'x' in a column heading, as a placeholder.If the blank row or column IS needed, enter at least one item in the row or column.

If the blank row or column is not needed, delete it.You might need to unhide rows or columns, to find the blank ones.If some of the data was NOT selected, find the blank rows or columns.After pressing Ctrl+A, columns F, G (hidden), H and I are not selected.

For example, in the screen shot below, hidden column E is blank.

Check the selected area, to make sure that all the data is included.

Press Ctrl + A, to select the entire region.

Select one cell in the column you want to sort.

To help prevent sorting problems, follow these steps before you sort Excel data: For a formula example, see the VLOOKUP Sorting Problem below.

Check for formulas that include an sheet name, in references to cells on the current sheet.

Match, or orders with the wrong customer address.

You could end up with names and phone numbers that don't.

The data, part of the data might be sorted, while other data is not sorted.

If there is a blank row or blank column in.

2) Check Your Dataīefore you sort data in Excel, be sure there are no blank rows or columns within The backup tool is in xlam format, so it's easy to install on your computer - just like any other Excel file. This tool makes a backup copy in the current folder, and does NOT affect the active workbook. Tip: For a quick and easy backup copy, get my free Excel Backup tool. Then, you can go back to the saved version, if anything goes wrong. Get the Sample Sort Workbook Avoid Sorting Trouble: Check Your Data 1) Make a Backup of Your Dataīe sure to make a backup copy of your Microsoft Excel file, before you start sorting the data.

How to sort multiple columns in excel