How to Get Out of Header and Footer View in Excel: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

Getting out of header and footer view in Excel is a simple process. All you need to do is double-click on any cell outside of the header or footer area, or press the "Esc" key on your keyboard. This will take you back to the standard Excel worksheet view.

Step by Step Tutorial: Exiting Header and Footer View in Excel

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that header and footer view is a mode in Excel that allows you to edit the top and bottom margins of your pages. Following these steps will help you exit this mode and return to the regular worksheet view.

Step 1: Double-click on any cell outside the header or footer area

By double-clicking outside the header or footer area, you exit the view mode.

When you’re in header or footer view, you’ll notice that the rest of the worksheet is greyed out. To exit, simply double-click on any cell that is not greyed out. This action signals Excel that you’re done editing the header or footer and want to return to the main worksheet area.

Step 2: Press the "Esc" key on your keyboard

Alternatively, you can press the "Esc" key to exit header and footer view.

If you’re not a fan of using your mouse too much, the "Esc" key is your friend. Pressing it while in header or footer view will immediately take you back to your Excel worksheet, ready for further data entry or analysis.

After completing these steps, you’ll find yourself back in the normal Excel worksheet view, ready to continue with your work.

Tips for Exiting Header and Footer View in Excel

  • If you’re editing the header or footer and want to view your changes in real-time, switch to "Page Layout" view by clicking the View tab and selecting "Page Layout."
  • Remember that headers and footers will only appear on printed documents or in print preview, not in the normal editing mode.
  • Use the "Page Layout" view if you want to edit your headers and footers within the context of your entire page.
  • If you accidentally enter header or footer view, don’t panic; just use these simple steps to get back to your worksheet.
  • Customizing headers and footers can make your Excel documents look more professional when printed, so it’s a useful feature to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the header and footer view used for in Excel?

The header and footer view in Excel is used to add or edit content that will appear at the top or bottom of each printed page of your document.

Can I undo changes made in the header or footer view?

Yes, you can undo changes by pressing "Ctrl + Z" or by clicking the undo button in Excel immediately after making a change.

Why can’t I see my headers and footers in the normal view?

Headers and footers are designed to be visible in print preview and on printed pages, not in the normal worksheet view.

How do I add page numbers in the footer in Excel?

To add page numbers, access the header and footer view, click on the footer section, and then select the "Page Number" option from the Header & Footer Elements group.

Can I have different headers and footers on different pages in Excel?

Yes, you can have different headers and footers on different pages by customizing the "First Page Header/Footer" and "Even/Odd Page Header/Footer" options.

Summary

  1. Double-click outside the header or footer area
  2. Press the "Esc" key

Conclusion

Navigating through Excel’s array of features can sometimes feel like a maze. But fear not, with the right directions, even the trickiest paths can be tread with ease. Exiting the header and footer view in Excel is one such path—simple when you know how! Remember, it’s just a double-click or an "Esc" key away. It’s like stepping out of a room back into the main hall; you’re still in the same building—Excel—but now you can see everything else again. When you get out of header and footer view, you’re back to the larger worksheet, where all your data lives. So go ahead, make those headers and footers snazzy. And when you’re done, step back into the world of cells and formulas with just a click or a tap. Excel awaits your command, ready for whatever task you throw at it next.