How to Merge Cells in Google Sheets: Step by Step Guide

If you're wondering how to merge cells in Google Sheets, you're in the right place. Merging cells can simplify your data layout, making it easier to read and organize. In this article, we'll cover everything from how to combine cells in Google Sheets to how to find merged cells in Google Sheets. This is especially useful when you want to create a title or heading that spans across several columns or rows, making your data easier to read and understand.

We'll also explain how to merge cells in Google Sheets without losing data, and the shortcuts for merging data in sheet. Additionally, you'll learn how to merge columns in Google Sheets to keep key information visible as you scroll through your data.

What are Cells in Google Sheets

Cells in Google Sheets are the fundamental building blocks of your spreadsheet. Each cell is where you input, store, and organize data, whether it's text, numbers, or formulas. Understanding what are cells in Google Sheets is essential for effectively managing your data. You can perform various actions like formatting cells, merging cells, or even locking them to protect important information. If you're calculating sums, creating charts, or organizing your tasks, Google Sheets cells allow you to customize and structure your spreadsheet efficiently.

How to Merge Cells in Google Sheets (Desktop)

Follow these steps to merge cells in Google Sheets on a desktop:

Step 1: Open Your Google Sheet

Start by opening the Google Sheets document where you want to merge cells.

Step 2: Select the Cells

Click and drag your mouse over the cells you want to merge. You can also click the first cell, hold down the Shift key, and then click the last cell in the range you want to select.

Step 3: Click on the Merge Button

Go to the toolbar at the top of the page. Look for the “Merge cells” button. It looks like a rectangle with a line dividing it into smaller parts. It’s usually near the text alignment and formatting options.

Step 4: Choose a Merge Option

Click the “Merge cells” button to open a drop-down menu. You’ll see different options such as -

• Merge all: Combines all selected cells into one large cell.
• Merge horizontally: Merges selected cells in each row into one cell per row.
• Merge vertically: Merges selected cells in each column into one cell per column.
• Unmerge: Reverts any merged cells back to their original separate cells.

Step 5: Apply the Merge

Select the merge option that fits your needs. Your cells will combine based on the option you chose.

Tips

• If you’re creating a header for a table, merging cells can help center your title across multiple columns.
• Merging cells removes data from cells other than the top-left one. Ensure important information isn’t lost.

How to Merge Cells in Google Sheets Shortcut

If you prefer using shortcuts, merging cells in Google Sheets can be done quickly with a few keyboard shortcuts. Unfortunately, Google Sheets does not have a dedicated shortcut key for merging cells, but you can use the Alt key (on Windows) or Option key (on Mac) with the letter "O," then "M" to open the merge options quickly.

How to Merge Google Sheets Without Losing Data

A common challenge when merging cells in Google Sheets is losing data from all but the top-left cell. To avoid losing important information, consider these alternatives:

• Use the CONCATENATE or JOIN function: Instead of merging cells, you can combine the text from multiple cells using formulas like =CONCATENATE(A1, " ", B1) or =JOIN(", ", A1:A3). This way, you merge the data without actually merging the cells.

• Use a helper column: Before merging, copy the content you want to keep into another cell or column. This ensures you don't lose any data when you perform the merge.

How to Merge Cells in Google Sheets Without Merging

If you want the look of merged cells without actually merging them, you can use center across selection by:

• Highlighting the cells you want to look merged.
• Going to the toolbar, clicking on "Format," then "Align," and choosing "Center."

This centers the text across the selected range without merging the cells, keeping all your data intact.

How to Merge Cells in Google Sheets Mobile

Here’s how to merge cells using the Google Sheets app on your mobile device such as Android or iPad.

Step 1: Open the Google Sheets App

Open the Google Sheets app on your mobile device and select the spreadsheet where you want to merge cells.

Step 2: Select the Cells

Tap and hold on the first cell you want to merge, then drag the selection handles to cover all the cells you want to merge.

Step 3: Choose Merge Cells

Scroll down and select "Merge cells" from the menu options. The selected cells will merge based on your choice.

Step 5: Review the Merge

Check the merged cell to ensure it appears as you intended. If necessary, you can unmerge it by clicking the merge button again.

How to Unmerge Cells in Google Sheets

Unmerging cells is simple and can be done in a few quick steps:

Step 1: Select the Merged Cell

Click or tap on the merged cell that you want to unmerge.

Step 2: Click on the Merge Button

For desktop, go back to the “Merge cells” button in the toolbar. For mobile, open the menu by tapping the three vertical dots in the top-right corner.

Step 3: Choose the Unmerge Option

In the drop-down menu, select “Unmerge.” The merged cell will split back into the original separate cells, with the content staying in the first cell.

Also Read:

• How to Insert Cells in Google Sheets
• How to Make a Table in Google Sheets
• How to Merge Cells in Google Docs

Conclusion

Merging cells in Google Sheets is a straightforward yet powerful tool that enhances the organization and presentation of your data. Whether you're creating a report, a budget, or a project plan, merging cells allows you to create clear, concise headings and better-structured layouts. By mastering this simple feature, you can make your spreadsheets not only more functional but also more visually appealing, ensuring that your data is presented in the best possible way.