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To merge cells in Google Sheets, use the built-in merge tools that combine two or more adjacent cells into one larger cell.

Understanding what merging does

Merging cells creates one cell out of multiple selected cells. The merged cell spans the original rows or columns. The content stays in the upper-left cell, and the remaining content is removed.

Types of merges in Google Sheets

Google Sheets provides three merge options:

1. Merge all merges every selected cell into one.

2. Merge vertically merges cells within the same column into one tall cell.

3. Merge horizontally merges cells within the same row into one wide cell.

Each type follows the same selection rules.

How to merge cells (step-by-step)

On Windows and Mac

Google Sheets works the same on Windows and Mac because it runs in a browser.

1. Select the cells you want to merge.

2. Go to the toolbar and click Format.

3. Click Merge cells.

4. Choose Merge all, Merge vertically, or Merge horizontally.

The merge applies instantly.

How to merge cells using the toolbar shortcut

1. Highlight your cells.

2. Locate the merge icon on the main toolbar. It looks like two rectangles merging.

3. Click the arrow next to the icon.

4. Pick your merge type.

The toolbar gives faster access than the Format menu.

How to unmerge cells

To unmerge cells in Google Sheets:

1. Select the merged cell.

2. Go to Format > Merge cells.

3. Click Unmerge.

The merged cell splits back into the original number of cells.

Limitations of merging in Google Sheets

1. Merged cells prevent sorting or filtering when the merged range is inside a table.

2. Merged cells create layout issues when users try to copy or move data.

3. Merge operations work only on adjacent cells.

Google Sheets shows warnings when merged cells block specific actions.

Best practices for merging

1. Merge for headers, titles, and grouped labels only.

2. Avoid merging inside datasets intended for sorting or analysis.

3. Use text-wrapping and alignment when visual spacing is the goal.

These practices keep sheets structured and easier to edit.

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