Merging cells in Google Sheets can be a handy tool when you’re organizing your data. But what happens when you need to revert merged cells back to their original state? Don’t fret, it’s a simple process. In just a few clicks, you can unmerge cells and have your spreadsheet back in tip-top shape.
Step by Step Tutorial to Unmerge Cells in Google Sheets
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s clarify what we’ll achieve with these steps. Unmerging cells will separate a single merged cell back into individual cells. It’s like turning a king-sized bed back into two twin-sized beds, each with its own space.
Step 1: Open Your Google Sheet
First things first, you’ll need to open the Google Sheet that contains the merged cells you want to unmerge.
Once you’ve opened your Google Sheet, locate the merged cells. These will appear as larger cells that span across what used to be several individual cells.
Step 2: Select the Merged Cells
Click and drag your cursor over the merged cells to highlight them. This tells Google Sheets which cells you want to unmerge.
Make sure all the merged cells you want to unmerge are selected. If you miss one, you’ll have to repeat the process for those cells.
Step 3: Right-Click and Choose ‘Unmerge Cells’
After selecting the merged cells, right-click to bring up a menu. Look for the ‘Unmerge cells’ option and click it.
If you prefer using the menu bar, you can also find the ‘Unmerge cells’ option under the ‘Format’ tab.
Step 4: Confirm the Unmerge
Once you click ‘Unmerge cells’, the cells will separate back to their original state.
If you had any data within the merged cell, it will now only appear in the top-left most cell after unmerging. You may have to manually adjust this data.
After you’ve completed these steps, you’ll see that your previously merged cells are now individual cells again. You can now edit, format, or merge them again if you wish.
Tips for Unmerging Cells in Google Sheets
- Make sure you only select the cells you want to unmerge. If you accidentally select additional cells, you might unmerge cells you didn’t intend to.
- If you’re working with a large number of cells, consider using keyboard shortcuts to speed up the process. For unmerging cells, the shortcut is Alt + Shift + E, then U.
- Keep in mind that unmerging cells won’t automatically redistribute content. You’ll need to manually adjust the content if necessary.
- Be cautious when unmerging cells that have been used in formulas. Unmerging can affect the way your formulas function.
- Always save a copy of your Google Sheet before making significant changes like unmerging cells. This way, you can revert back if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the data in merged cells when I unmerge them?
The data in the merged cells will remain in the top-left most cell after unmerging. You may need to redistribute the data manually across the newly unmerged cells.
Can I unmerge cells that are part of a formula?
Yes, you can unmerge cells that are part of a formula, but this may affect how the formula operates. Review and adjust your formulas as necessary.
Is there a shortcut to unmerge cells in Google Sheets?
Yes, the keyboard shortcut to unmerge cells is Alt + Shift + E, then U.
Will unmerging cells affect my spreadsheet’s layout?
Unmerging cells will change the layout of your spreadsheet since it turns a single cell back into multiple cells. Make sure this is what you want before proceeding.
Can I undo the unmerge action if I make a mistake?
Absolutely! Just like any other action in Google Sheets, you can undo the unmerge action by pressing Ctrl + Z (Cmd + Z on a Mac).
Summary
- Open your Google Sheet.
- Select the merged cells.
- Right-click and choose ‘Unmerge Cells’.
- Confirm the unmerge.
Conclusion
Unmerging cells in Google Sheets is a straightforward task that can be completed in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re reorganizing your data or correcting a mistake, knowing how to unmerge cells is an essential skill for any Google Sheets user. Just remember to handle your data carefully, especially if it’s part of a formula. With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be unmerging cells like a pro in no time. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch your spreadsheet transform before your eyes.