How to delete all columns to the right in excel

To delete all columns to the right in Excel, select the first column you want removed and extend the selection to the last column, then delete the selection.

Windows and Mac Instructions

Excel keeps 16,384 columns (A to XFD). Unused columns increase file size and slow workbook performance when they contain formatting or data remnants. Deleting them resets the sheet structure.

Steps

1. Click the first column header you want to remove.

2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Right Arrow (Windows) or Command + Shift + Right Arrow (Mac). Excel selects all columns to the last column (XFD).

3. Right-click the selected column headers.

4. Select Delete.

Permanent Removal of Formatting

Excel sometimes keeps formatting even after deleting content. Clearing formatting resets the sheet.

1. Select the same range of columns.

2. Go to Home > Editing > Clear.

3. Choose Clear Formats.

Effect on File Performance

Excel reduces file size by 10–35% when unused columns with formatting get removed based on internal compression metrics. Workbooks with heavy conditional formatting or imported data show the largest impact.

Behavior Differences

• Windows Excel handles large selections faster because it uses a multithreaded rendering engine.

• Mac Excel performs the same task with identical results, though large-range deletion can take longer due to memory handling differences.