Tables in Microsoft Excel 2016: A Beginner’s Guide

Tables in Microsoft Excel 2016 make it easy to organize, analyze, and present data. They give your worksheet a neat and professional look while adding powerful tools for sorting, filtering, and automatic formatting.

If you often work with data in Excel, learning to use tables will save you a lot of time and effort. Let’s explore how to create, format, and manage tables step-by-step.

What is a Table in Excel?

A table in Excel is a structured range of data that comes with built-in features like sorting, filtering, and styling. It automatically expands when you add new data and allows you to use easy-to-read formulas called structured references.

How to Create an Excel Table

Step 1: Select Your Data

Click any single cell within the range of data that you want to convert into a table.

Step 2: Insert the Table

You have three simple options:

• Go to the Insert tab and click Table.
• Go to the Home tab → Format as Table and choose a style.
• Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + T.

Step 3: Confirm Your Range and Headers

A small dialog box will appear. Make sure the data range is correct. If your data includes headers, check the box that says My table has headers. Then click OK.

Key Features of Excel Tables

• Automatic Styling: Tables come with banded rows and header colors for easy reading.
• Sorting and Filtering: Each header cell gets a drop-down arrow for quick sorting and filtering.
• Auto Expansion: When you add data next to a table, Excel includes it automatically.
• Calculated Columns: Enter a formula in one cell, and Excel fills the rest automatically.
• Total Row: Add a total row to instantly calculate sums, averages, or counts.
• Structured References: Instead of cell addresses, tables use column names in formulas, like =SUM(Table1[Sales]).

Formatting Data as a Table

Formatting your data as a table not only improves its look but also makes it more functional. Here’s how:

1. Select your data range (for example, A2:D9).
2. Click Home → Format as Table.
3. Choose a table style you like.
4. Confirm the range and header settings.

Now your selected range is formatted as a table with filters automatically added to the header row.

Modifying a Table

Adding Rows or Columns

• Type new data in the row or column next to the table — Excel will expand it automatically.
• Or, click and drag the bottom-right corner of the table to resize it.

Changing Table Style

• Select any cell in your table.
• Click the Table Design tab.
• Choose a new style from the Table Styles group.

Customizing Table Options

You can show or hide options like:

• Header Row
• Total Row
• Banded Rows
• First or Last Column
• Filter Buttons

Go to the Design tab and check or uncheck these options as needed.

How to Remove a Table

If you want to remove a table but keep the data:

1. Select any cell in the table.
2. Go to Design → Tools → Convert to Range.
3. Click Yes when prompted.

The data remains, but it’s no longer in table format. To remove the colors or styles completely, go to Home → Clear → Clear Formats.

5 FAQs About Tables in Microsoft Excel 2016

Conclusion

Tables in Microsoft Excel 2016 are one of the most useful tools for managing and analyzing data. They help you stay organized, save time, and make your spreadsheets look professional. Whether you’re tracking sales, managing a budget, or organizing a list, tables make the process faster and simpler. Start using them today and see the difference in your workflow!