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How To Copy Multiple Columns In Excel

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Mastering the ability to copy multiple columns in Excel can significantly enhance your data management efficiency. This skill is essential for anyone looking to manipulate large datasets or perform complex data analysis.

While Excel offers various methods to duplicate columns, users often seek simpler and more intuitive solutions. We'll explore how Sourcetable provides an easier alternative for copying multiple columns effectively.

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How to Copy Multiple Columns in Excel

Using the Mouse

To copy multiple adjacent columns, click the first column header, hold the shift key, and click the last column header. Right-click and select 'Copy' or press Ctrl+C to copy the selected columns. To copy non-adjacent columns, hold the Ctrl key while clicking each column header, then copy.

Keyboard Shortcuts

For copying with keyboard shortcuts, select the first column header, extend the selection using Shift+Arrow keys for adjacent columns or Ctrl+Arrow keys for non-adjacent columns, and press Ctrl+C to copy.

Using the Ribbon

After selecting the required columns, go to the Home tab, click the 'Copy' button in the Clipboard group to copy the columns. Use 'Paste' or press Ctrl+V to paste them into the destination.

Copying Multiple Non-Adjacent Columns

For non-adjacent columns, select the first column, hold down the Ctrl key, and click on additional column headers. Use the 'Copy' function from the right-click context menu or press Ctrl+C, then paste as needed.

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Common Use Cases

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    Creating a backup of important data columns

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    Compiling selected data from multiple sheets into one summary sheet

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    Duplicating dataset for scenario analysis without altering the original data

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    Transferring relevant columns to another workbook for reporting

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    Updating multiple pivot tables sourcing from the same columnar data

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Excel vs. Sourcetable: Streamlining Data Management

Discover the future of data handling with Sourcetable, where integration meets innovation. Unlike Excel, Sourcetable transforms data management by aggregating multiple sources into one seamless spreadsheet interface.

Enhance your productivity with Sourcetable's AI copilot. This feature eclipses Excel's capabilities, offering intuitive assistance in creating complex formulas and templates through user-friendly chat interactions.

Experience a new level of spreadsheet interactivity with Sourcetable. Its unique AI-driven approach provides a more dynamic and supportive user experience compared to the traditional functions of Excel.



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