ExcelTips (Menu Interface)
Members
This Site
Got a version of Excel that uses the menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our site focusing on the ribbon interface.
Helpful Links
ExcelTips FAQ
Ask an Excel Question
Make a Comment
Free Business Forms
Free Calendars
Subscribe
Better Use of Heading Space
Summary: If your column headings are too large to work well in your worksheet, try this tip. (This tip works with Microsoft Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, and Excel 2003.)You have probably noticed that column headings (the ones you enter) are often wider than the data in the column. This means that the printout may be wider than necessary, or even wider than what can fit on a single piece of paper.
One way to solve this is to change the orientation of your headings, so they are sideways. The following steps will do the trick:
- Select the cells containing the column headings you wish to change.
- Select Cells from the Format menu.
- Click on the Alignment tab.
- If you are using Excel 95, select one of the vertical orientations for your text using those offered in the Orientation area.
- If you are using Excel 97 or a later version, use the Orientation section to specify the angle (in degrees) at which the headings should be turned.
- Click on OK. Your headings are turned as you directed.
- Format your columns to so their width is better suited to the new text orientation.
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (1934) applies to Microsoft Excel versions: 97 2000 2002 2003
Related Tips:
Step Up and Take Control! Subscribers to ExcelTips know just how valuable a resource it is. ExcelTips Premium provides twice the number of exceptional, easy-to-understand tips every week in an ad-free newsletter, as well as substantial discounts on ExcelTips archives and e-books. Check out ExcelTips Premium today!