To keep a row or column static while you browse the rest of the worksheet, simply freeze the row (or column) in Microsoft Excel. It’s simple to do this also in Google Sheets (Google Drive). Below you will learn how to attach these cells to the table so that your spreadsheet with lots of data is easier to query.
How to freeze rows or columns in Microsoft Excel
Basically, just select the area you want to freeze or use the defaults.
Freeze the first column
- Choose View from the Excel menu;
- Click Freeze Panels;
- Choose Freeze First Column.
Freeze the first two columns
Select the third column, usually “C”.
- Choose View from the Excel menu;
- Click Freeze Panels;
- Choose the Freeze Panels option.
Freeze columns and rows (either one)
Select the cell below the rows and to the right of the columns that you want to keep visible (fixed/frozen) during scrolling. They must be selected to activate.
- Choose View from the Excel menu;
- Click Freeze Panels;
- Choose the Freeze Panels option.
How to unfreeze rows or columns in Excel
If you have changed your mind, unlocking columns or rows in Excel is just as simple.
On the View tab, click Window. There, choose the option “Defrost Panels”.
Note: If the View tab is not visible, you are probably using Excel Starter.
How to freeze rows or columns in Google Sheets
In Google Sheets, the option in the table is in the “View” section.
- Choose which rows or columns to select;
- Select View from the Google Sheets menu;
- Choose the option “Freeze”;
- You can freeze, from the cell that is, one or two, or up to where it is.