How to Insert Multiple Rows & Columns in Microsoft Excel

The video guide shows how you can insert multiple rows in a single action by selecting the same number of rows immediately below the point at which to want to make the insertion. The same method works for columns if you select cells or columns to the right.

If you want to insert 1,000 rows into a spreadsheet, you will still need to select 1,000 rows before clicking to Insert. The fastest way to select 1,000 rows is to enter the range in the name box. This is the box to the left of the formula bar that would normally tell you a cell's address such as A1 or B2. You can enter a range of 1,000 rows by typing '1:1000' or '11:1010' directly into that box. If the expression entered could legitimately be used in a formula e.g. '=SUM(1:1000)', typing it in the box will select those cells. The same trick works for columns. As you may not know which column is column 1,000 (ALL as it happens), you do have the option of entering a range in the form 'R1C1:R1C1000'. This will only select the top cell in each column but you can then insert full columns.

One benefit of selecting complete rows or columns prior to insertion is that you can choose to copy the existing rows and columns. The Insert option changes to read Insert Copied Cells. This can be useful if you are trying to extend the blank space available in a template. It is best to add rows in the middle of a template because rows added to the bottom may not be covered by pre-existing formulas. By copying the existing template rows, you retain any formulas, formatting and validation present in those rows.

By Ed Bolton, founder of Excel4Business Ltd. Last reviewed November 2026.