How to Move Rows in Microsoft Excel

Choose the method that works best

Are there times you decide to rearrange the data in your worksheet after you add it? If so, you can move data-filled rows in Microsoft Excel using a few different methods.

Instead of retyping the data in a different location or copying, pasting, and then deleting the original dataset, use one of these ways to move rows in Excel.

Before You Begin: (Optional) Insert a New Row

Before you use one of the methods below to move a row in Excel, you may want to insert an empty row. This is helpful if you’re moving the row between others that already contain data that you don’t want to overwrite.

Here are two quick and easy ways to insert a row in Excel on Windows, Mac, and the web:

If you move a row to another row containing data, you’ll receive a pop-up message asking if you want to continue. If you want to replace the data, selectOK, otherwise, chooseCanceland make room for the row you’re moving.

Check out our how-tos for additional ways toadd a single rowor toinsert multiple rowsin an Excel workbook.

Move Rows With the Ribbon

With a spot ready for the row you want to move, you can use the tools on the Ribbon to move it.

You’ll then see your row moved to its new location.

Tip: If you choose not to insert a blank row first, you can selectInsert>Insert Cut Cellson theHometab instead of using thePastebutton. The cut row will be inserted between the rows without replacing the data.

Move Rows With Your Mouse or Trackpad

If you’re nimble with mouse gestures, you can quickly move a row using it or your computer’s trackpad. This method works on Windows, Mac, and the web as well.

Alternatively, you can use your context (right-click) menu with a mouse or trackpad to cut and paste the row.

Tip: If you opted not to insert a blank row first, you can selectInsert Cut Cellsin the context menu instead ofPasteand you won’t overwrite your data.

Move Rows With a Keyboard Shortcut

Maybe you prefer to use keyboard shortcuts to get things done. This is another option for moving a row in Excel. If you’re using Excel on the web, use the key combination below for your platform, Windows or Mac.

You should see your row removed (cut) from the first location and entered (pasted) into the second.

Move Rows in the Excel Mobile App

If you’re using Excel on Android or iOS and want to move a row or two there, you can do so just as easily using a couple of different methods.

If you want to insert a blank row first, tap the row where you want one above and selectInsertin the toolbar that appears.

Select the row you want to move by tapping the row number. Hold an edge of the row as you drag it to its new position and release. Note that you’ll see a dark line as you drag the row up or down and existing rows move out of the way.

Select the row and choose theCuticon (Android) orCut(iPhone) in the toolbar that appears. Choose the spot where you want to place the row and choose thePasteicon (Android) orPaste(iPhone) in the toolbar.

It’s nice to know there’s more than one way to move rows in Excel. This flexibility lets you choose the method that works best for you or your spreadsheet setup.

For more, look athow to move columns in your Excel sheettoo.

Sandy Writtenhouse is a freelance technology writer and former Project, Department, and Program Manager. She turned her education, job experience, and love of technology into a full-time writing career. With all sorts of gadgets in her home and her hands, she seeks to help others make life easier through technology.Read Sandy’s Full Bio

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