How to Type Vertically in Excel
Typing vertically in Excel can be a handy trick, whether you’re trying to save space, make your spreadsheet look more attractive, or fit data into tight columns. To do this, you just need to adjust the text orientation settings. In a nutshell, you’ll select the cells you want to format, then use the text orientation options to rotate the text vertically. It’s as simple as that!
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Type Vertically in Excel
Ready to make your text stand tall? Follow these steps to get your text vertical in Excel.
Step 1: Select the Cells
First things first, click and drag to highlight the cell or cells where you want the vertical text.
By selecting the cells initially, you ensure that any changes you make will be applied to the correct location. This step sets the stage for all the formatting you’ll do next.
Step 2: Open the Format Cells Dialog Box
Right-click on the selected cells and choose "Format Cells" from the context menu.
The Format Cells dialog box is your gateway to a myriad of formatting options. This includes the ability to change text orientation. It’s like a control center for how your data looks.
Step 3: Navigate to the Alignment Tab
In the Format Cells dialog box, click on the "Alignment" tab.
The Alignment tab is where you’ll find all the options related to text placement and orientation. It’s your destination for making text go vertical.
Step 4: Adjust Text Orientation
In the Orientation section, look for the “Text” box or the orientation dial. Set the orientation to 90 degrees or -90 degrees, depending on your preference.
The Orientation section is where the magic happens. Rotating the text 90 degrees will make it stand vertical. You can also type the degree value directly into the box if that’s easier.
Step 5: Apply and Confirm
Click "OK" to apply the changes.
By pressing "OK," you confirm your settings and make your text go vertical. The selected cells should now display vertical text.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your text will appear vertically in the selected cells. This can make your spreadsheet look more organized and professional.
Tips for How to Type Vertically in Excel
- Use for Narrow Columns: Typing vertically is perfect for columns that are too narrow for horizontal text.
- Enhance Readability: Vertical text can sometimes make data easier to read, especially in tables.
- Combine with Cell Coloring: For added clarity, consider coloring the cells or setting borders when you type vertically.
- Text Direction Shortcuts: Use the ribbon shortcut (Home > Alignment > Orientation) for quicker access.
- Think About Your Audience: Make sure that vertical text enhances, rather than complicates, your viewer’s experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert back to horizontal text?
To revert, just go back to the Format Cells dialog box, navigate to the Alignment tab, and set the orientation back to 0 degrees.
Can I only type vertically in a single cell?
No, you can apply vertical text to multiple cells at once by selecting a range of cells before changing the text orientation.
Will vertical text affect data entry?
No, you can still enter and edit data in a cell with vertical text the same way you would with horizontal text.
Can I combine vertical text with other formatting options?
Absolutely! Feel free to combine vertical text with bold, italics, different font sizes, and colors.
How do I align vertical text within the cell?
You can adjust the vertical and horizontal alignment options in the Alignment tab of the Format Cells dialog box to center or position the text.
Summary
- Select the Cells
- Open the Format Cells Dialog Box
- Navigate to the Alignment Tab
- Adjust Text Orientation
- Apply and Confirm
Conclusion
There you have it! Typing vertically in Excel is not just a neat trick, but a valuable tool that can make your data presentation more dynamic and easier to read. Whether you’re working on a complex project or just need to spruce up a simple table, knowing how to adjust the text orientation can be a game-changer.
And remember, Excel is a powerful tool with countless features waiting to be explored. Don’t stop at vertical text—dive into other formatting options, explore pivot tables, or learn some handy shortcuts to make your workflow smoother.
So go ahead, open up Excel and make your data stand tall! Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who loves organizing information, mastering these small but mighty features will elevate your spreadsheet game. Happy Excel-ing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.