Excel is one of the most widely used tools for data analysis. Numerous functions in Excel make it easy to work with large datasets. Merging cells in Excel is one such function that enables you to combine multiple adjacent cells into a single larger cell. You can use this function to create headers and labels to enhance the readability of your spreadsheet. The article will provide a complete guide regarding the Excel merge cells shortcut.
Why merge cells in Excel?
Merging cells in Excel is important for several reasons. Following is the list of some key reasons for its importance:
Data Presentation: Merging cells allows you to create larger, visually appealing sections in your spreadsheet. This enhanced presentation improves readability, especially when you are dealing with large datasets.
Labeling the Data: Merging cells is useful to label or identify specific sections or data ranges.
Data Entry Efficiency: When manually inputting data, merging cells saves time by allowing you to enter information into a larger cell instead of multiple smaller ones.
Reducing Clutter: Large datasets with multiple columns and rows become cluttered. Merging cells helps you reduce clutter by combining related data.
Shortcuts to merge cells in Excel?
You can merge cells in Excel in a fast way using different shortcuts. Here is a step-by-step guide on How to merge cells shortcut in Excel:
Way 1: Using Keyboard Shortcut:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Excel open the sheet on which you want to merge cells
Step 2: Select the cells you want to merge
Step 3: Press the following shortcut in a sequence on your keyboard: Alt > H > M
Use the following shortcuts to perform the related functions:
Merge and Centre: Alt > H > M > C
Merge Across: Alt > H > M > A
Merge Cells: Alt > H > M > M
Unmerge Cells: Alt > H > M > U
Step 4: After applying Merge and Centre: Alt > H > M > C, the selected cells will be merged into a single cell
Way 2: Using Merge and Centre Option:
Step 1: Open the Excel sheet that contains the cells you want to merge
Step 2: Select the cells you want to merge
Step 3: Go to the "Home" tab in the Excel ribbon at the top of the window
Step 4: In the "Alignment" section, click on the "Merge & Centre" button
Step 5: The selected cells get merged into a single cell
Way 3: Using Format Cells Option:
Step 1: Open your Excel spreadsheet
Step 2: Select the cells you want to merge
Step 3: Right-click on the selected range to open the context menu or press the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl + 1" to open the "Format Cells" dialog box.
Step 4: In the "Format Cells" dialog box, click on the "Alignment" tab.
Step 5: Under the "Text alignment" section, select the "Merge cells" option
Step 6: Close the format cells tab to see the selected cells merged into a single cell
A Free Alternative Choice - WPS Office:
WPS Office is a feature-rich office application that offers users a cost-effective and efficient alternative to Microsoft Office. One of its standout features is that it is entirely free for users, making it an accessible choice for individuals, students, and businesses. With WPS Office's strong compatibility, you can easily work with various file formats and collaborate with your colleagues and clients.
You can merge cells in the WPS spreadsheet using a keyboard shortcut and using merge and center options.
Following is the step-by-step guide on how to merge cells in a spreadsheet:
Step 1: Open WPS Spreadsheet on which you want to perform merge cells
Step 2: Select the cells you want to merge
Step 3: Right-click on the selected range of cells and click on the “format cells” button
Step 4: Go to the”alignment” tab in the format cell menu
Step 5: In the expanded menu, click on "Merge" cells
Alternatively, you can use the following keyboard shortcut to access the merge cells menu: Shortcut: Alt + H + M
You can use all the combinations in the given screenshot with Alt > H > M to do the function as per your requirement.
FAQS:
1. Can I undo a merge cells action?
Yes, you can easily undo a merge cells action by selecting the merged cell, accessing the "Format Cells" dialog box, and unchecking the "Merge cells" option.
2. How can I merge cells without losing data?
To merge cells without losing data, you need to ensure that the data you want to retain is in the top-left cell of the selection. This way, when you merge the cells, the data from the top-left cell will be preserved.
3. Is it possible to merge non-adjacent cells?
Yes, Excel allows you to merge non-adjacent cells. To do this, hold down the Ctrl key and select each cell individually that you want to merge. Once selected, follow the same steps as merging adjacent cells.
Summary:
In summary, the article discusses how to merge cells in Excel to combine multiple adjacent cells into a single cell. The article underlines that merging cells is essential for improving data presentation, creating structured reports, and reducing clutter in large datasets. In addition, the article provides a complete step-by-step guide on how to merge cells using the “Keyboard Shortcut,” "Merge & Center," option and "Format Cells" options. Additionally, the article emphasizes WPS Office as a free and powerful office suite with strong compatibility, including a shortcut to merge cells in its Spreadsheet tool. You can download WPS Office for free by clicking on this link https://www.wps.com/.
