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How to sort columns in Google Sheets?

Learn two simple ways to sort columns in Google Sheets with this beginner-friendly tutorial. Master column sorting quickly and efficiently!

How to

If you’re using Google Sheets, you likely want to sort your data and display it in a specific order while ignoring the first row. You’ve come to the right place! I will explain how to easily sort columns so you can display the data you want in Google Sheets.

Let’s start!


Use Sort range by columns

To sort your data using the sort range method, make sure to select only the column you wish to sort, excluding the first row, which is usually your column header. Then, navigate to Data > Sort range and choose to sort range by column A in either ascending (A to Z) or descending (Z to A) order.

Screenshot of google sheets interface to explain where to click to sort range data by column
Sort range options

ℹ️ If you want to sort by a column other than A, select your data from that column.

Use Filters to sort columns

The second method is to filter all your columns. First, select all your data, then click on the « Create a filter » button. A symbol will appear in the first row, allowing you to sort the data in ascending or descending order, by color, or to filter by specific words. You can also directly select the data you want.

This method makes it easier to sort other columns and to remember which sort is used.

Screenshot of google sheets interface to explain where to click to filter data
Filter button

And that’s all!