Modify Rows and Columns in Excel 2016

Have you ever felt tired of resizing every single row or column one by one in Excel 2016? Don’t worry — there’s a much faster way! You can easily modify all rows or columns at once, saving both time and effort. This guide will walk you through simple methods to adjust the height or width of every row and column together.

Why Modify All Rows or Columns at Once?

When you’re working with large spreadsheets, having rows and columns of uneven sizes can make your data look messy. Adjusting them all at once helps you:

  • Keep your worksheet organized.
  • Ensure consistent spacing for better readability.
  • Save time compared to resizing each cell manually.

Method 1: Select All and Adjust Manually

This is the simplest and most commonly used method to resize everything at once.

  • Step 1: Click the Select All button. You’ll find it at the top-left corner of your sheet, just below the Name Box (above row numbers and left of column letters). You can also press Ctrl + A on Windows or Command + A on Mac.
  • Step 2: To adjust all column widths, hover your mouse between any two column letters (like A and B). The cursor will turn into a double-headed arrow.
  • Step 3: Click and drag to make columns wider or narrower. All selected columns will adjust together.
  • Step 4: To change row height, hover between any two row numbers (like 1 and 2), then drag up or down. All rows will now have the same height.
Tip: You can preview the change as you drag. Release the mouse when you get the perfect size.

Method 2: Use AutoFit Option

AutoFit is a quick feature that automatically adjusts rows or columns to fit the content inside the cells.

  • Step 1: Select the entire sheet by clicking the Select All button or pressing Ctrl + A.
  • Step 2: Go to the Home tab.
  • Step 3: In the Cells group, click Format.
  • Step 4: Choose either AutoFit Column Width or AutoFit Row Height.

Quick AutoFit Trick: After selecting all, simply double-click the boundary between any two column letters to AutoFit all columns, or double-click between any two row numbers to AutoFit all rows instantly.

Method 3: Set Specific Dimensions

If you want all rows or columns to have a precise size, you can manually enter the value.

  • Step 1: Select the whole worksheet using the Select All button or press Ctrl + A.
  • Step 2: On the Home tab, click Format in the Cells group.
  • Step 3: Choose Column Width or Row Height.
  • Step 4: Enter your desired value (for example, 20 for columns or 25 for rows) and click OK.

This method ensures all cells have exactly the same height or width, keeping your spreadsheet neat and uniform.

Bonus Tip: Modify Formatting Instead of Size

If you want to change the look (like font or color) of all rows and columns, simply select all cells first and then apply your formatting. You can change font style, alignment, background color, or even add borders — all at once!

5 FAQs on Modifying All Rows or Columns in Excel 2016

1. How do I select all rows and columns quickly?

Click the small square at the top-left corner of your worksheet or press Ctrl + A to select everything instantly.

2. What is the fastest way to AutoFit all columns?

Double-click the line between any two column letters after selecting all cells. Excel will AutoFit every column automatically.

3. Can I set a fixed height or width for all cells?

Yes! Use the Format option under the Home tab, then choose Row Height or Column Width and enter a number value.

4. Will these steps work in other Excel versions?

Yes. These methods work in Excel 2016, 2019, 2021, and Microsoft 365 with only minor differences in appearance.

5. Can I undo changes if I set the wrong size?

Of course! Just press Ctrl + Z to undo the last change and try again.

Conclusion

Modifying all rows or columns in Excel 2016 is much easier than you might think. With just a few clicks, you can make your spreadsheet look cleaner and more professional. Whether you use manual resizing, AutoFit, or set specific dimensions, these methods save time and make your data easier to read. So next time your sheet looks uneven — give these tips a try and make Excel work smarter for you!

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