How to filter rows instead of columns in excel

Answer

To filter rows in Excel, you need to use filter tools that read column-based criteria and return row-based results. Excel filters entire rows every time a column condition is applied. Excel does not apply filters horizontally by default, so row filtering requires the correct setup of the table and the correct use of AutoFilter features.

What Does Filtering Rows Mean?

Filtering rows is the process of displaying specific rows that meet selected criteria while hiding unwanted rows.

How to Filter Rows in Excel

To filter rows in Excel, use the built-in AutoFilter command, which hides complete rows when the selected column criteria are applied.

Windows and Mac Steps

The steps are the same for Windows and Mac, except for shortcut differences.

1. Highlight the full dataset that contains the rows you want to filter.

2. Go to the Data tab.

3. Select Filter.

4. Click the filter drop-down arrow on the column that contains the condition you want to use.

5. Choose the criteria such as text filters, number filters, or date filters.

6. Confirm the selection to hide rows that do not meet the criteria.

Keyboard Shortcuts

• Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + L to toggle filters.

• Mac: Press Command + Shift + F to toggle filters.

How to Filter Rows Horizontally

Excel filters vertically as a default behavior. Horizontal filtering requires a transformation of the data layout or built-in features designed for advanced filters.

Method 1: Transpose the Data

1. Select the original dataset.

2. Press Ctrl + C (Windows) or Command + C (Mac).

3. Right-click on an empty cell.

4. Select Paste Special.

5. Choose Transpose.

6. Apply a standard column filter to the transposed layout.

Method 2: Use Advanced Filter to Return Filtered Rows

1. Prepare a criterion range above the dataset.

2. Enter conditions in the criteria cells.

3. Go to the Data tab.

4. Select Advanced under the Sort & Filter group.

5. Choose Filter the list, in-place or Copy to another location.

6. Confirm to filter rows that meet the defined rules.

Why Excel Filters Rows Instead of Columns

Excel applies column-based conditions because grid structures organize data vertically. Filters identify matches in columns and hide rows that have mismatched values. Excel does this to maintain relational structure and preserve column integrity.

When to Use Row Filtering

Row filtering is useful when:

1. A dataset contains many entries and requires narrowed visibility.

2. A dataset uses category fields to isolate specific groups.

3. A dataset needs a segmented view for sorting or reporting.

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