How to unhide multiple columns in excel

Answer

Unhiding multiple columns in Excel means restoring hidden columns so the data becomes visible on the worksheet. To unhide multiple columns in Excel, follow a direct process that works on Windows and Mac. The ribbon path, shortcut behavior, and selection method remain similar across both platforms.

Using the Ribbon

1. Highlight the columns around the hidden range.
   Example: Select column B and G to unhide C–F.

2. Go to the Home tab.

3. Select Format in the Cells group.

4. Select Hide & Unhide.

5. Select Unhide Columns.

Using Right-Click

1. Select the columns on both sides of the hidden section.

2. Right-click the column headers.

3. Select Unhide.

Using Column Width

1. Select the columns that include the hidden ones.

2. Go to Home → Format.

3. Select Column Width.

4. Type a width value such as 8.43.

5. Select OK.

Using the Go To Feature

(Windows and Mac share this method)

1. Press Ctrl + G or F5.

2. Type the address of a hidden column, for example, C:C.

3. Select OK.

4. Go to Home → Format → Hide & Unhide → Unhide Columns.

Are there differences between Windows and Mac?

Yes.
Windows uses right-click formatting menus and ribbon layout identical across versions. Mac uses the same steps though the ribbon spacing and menu dimensions differ. Keyboard shortcuts for navigation remain identical.

Why do columns stay hidden after unhiding?

Columns stay hidden when the width is set to 0. The unhide action restores visibility while the zero-width condition prevents viewing. Setting a visible width fixes the issue.

How to ensure multiple hidden columns do not hide again

1. Select the entire sheet using Ctrl + A.

2. Right-click any column header.

3. Select Column Width.

4. Set a width such as 8.43.

How to unhide all columns at once

1. Select the entire worksheet using the triangle icon at the top-left corner.

2. Right-click any column header.

3. Select Unhide.

Extra optimization notes for Excel users

1. Excel hides columns when users collapse outlines or group data.

2. Excel responds instantly when the selected range includes both boundaries of hidden columns.

3. Excel assigns default column width at 8.43, and values below 0.08 result in visual disappearance.

4. Excel reports hidden columns in the Name Box when selecting a range manually.

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