When using Hide Rows and Columns, the most common questions focus on formulas, shortcuts, hidden markers, and printing results; this section covers 4 frequent questions.
FAQ
Will formulas such as SUM change after I hide rows or columns?
- No. Hiding rows or columns changes the current display only and does not delete worksheet data.
- Existing formulas still calculate based on their original referenced ranges.
- If you need some values to stay out of a calculation, adjust the formula range or use a conditional function instead.
What should I do if shortcut keys do not hide rows or columns?
- First make sure that you selected the full row or full column.
- Check whether another app is using the same shortcut.
- You can also use the right-click menu and choose Hide directly.
Why can’t I tell where the hidden rows or columns are?
- After hiding, a double-line indicator usually appears between row numbers or column headers.
- Find that marker, then select the adjacent rows or columns on both sides and use Unhide.
- If there are many hidden areas, select the whole worksheet first and use Unhide to restore everything at once.
Will hidden rows or columns appear when I print the worksheet?
- By default, no.
- Hiding rows or columns is a practical way to reduce what appears in print.
- If you need the full worksheet in print, restore the hidden content before previewing and printing.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Row number | The numbered label on the left side of a worksheet. Selecting it lets you act on the full row. |
| Column header | The lettered or labeled marker at the top of a worksheet. Selecting it lets you act on the full column. |
| Double-line indicator | A visual marker that appears where rows or columns have been hidden, helping you locate the hidden area. |
| Unhide | The action that restores previously hidden rows or columns to view. |