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How to freeze columns in Microsoft Excel to compare data throughout your spreadsheet

Kelly Laffey   

How to freeze columns in Microsoft Excel to compare data throughout your spreadsheet
Tech3 min read

Excel Spreadsheet Getty 1152104531

Matias Delacroix/Getty Images

You can freeze columns in Excel so you can compare data as you scroll through your sheet.

Freezing columns in Excel is an easy way to ensure that those panes remain visible as you scroll through the rest of the document.

This allows you to easily compare the data and text in a variety of spots in the worksheet.

You can freeze multiple columns at one time, and then unfreeze them when you're ready to view the document without having the panes locked into view.

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How to freeze columns in Excel

1. In an open spreadsheet, select "View" from the top menu bar and then hit "Freeze First Column." This will freeze column A.

How to freeze columns in Excel

Kelly Laffey/Business Insider

If you want to freeze columns A and B, click inside the first cell of Column C (C1). Then hit "Freeze Panes."

2. If you want to freeze multiple columns, click in the first cell to the right of the last column that you want to freeze. Then hit "Freeze Panes" in the "View" menu.

How to freeze columns in Excel

Kelly Laffey/Business Insider

Select "Freeze Panes" from the top menu.

3. Selecting a cell that's below the first row will also freeze all prior rows. For example, if you select cell D5, you will freeze columns A, B and C; as well as rows 1, 2, 3 and 4.

4. The faint grey line that appears on the worksheet indicates that all the columns to the left are frozen. They'll stay on the screen as you scroll throughout the document.

How to unfreeze columns in Excel

1. Once you freeze the columns, the "Freeze Panes" button turns into an "Unfreeze Panes" button.

2. To unfreeze the frames, select "View," then select "Unfreeze Panes."

How to freeze columns in Excel

Kelly Laffey/Business Insider

Click "Unfreeze Panes" in the top menu.

3. You can now view your Excel document normally.

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