Whether the data in a table or a spreadsheet should be placed in rows or columns can vary depending on use and needs. If you have a spreadsheet with data entered incorrectly, how do you go about correcting it? You probably remove the incorrect columns and manually enter them into rows.
This procedure is both slow and troublesome, and is not needed. The fastest way to fix your tables is to use the transpose function. Using it, you can convert your column-based charts to rows – or vice versa.
How to convert the table’s columns to rows
1. Select and copy. The example in the image above shows a simple table where we want the columns to change to rows. Start by selecting all current cells. Then right click and select Copy.
2. Choose special. Now right-click on an empty cell where you want to place your transposed data (that is, the inverted version of the table). Choose Paste special and then click on Paste special one more time.
3. Transpose. Now the dialog box opens Paste special. This is where you should check Transpose which you can find on the bottom line. Then click on OK to flip your columns and rows.
4. Then it was done! It’s not more difficult than that – the table’s columns have now turned into rows. The function can also be used to do the reverse, and with considerably more complicated tables.
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