How To Insert a New Line in a Cell in Google Sheets
Feb 12, 2025
Do you need to quickly add a line break to a cell in Google Sheets?
Inserting line breaks in Google Sheets cells helps organize data, improve readability, and create structured lists (e.g., addresses, multi-step instructions). However, many users accidentally exit the cell when pressing "Enter" instead of adding a line break.
This guide will teach you simple methods to insert new lines, troubleshoot issues, and master advanced tips.
Using a Keyboard Shortcut to Add a New Line
The most commonly used method to add a new line in a Google Sheets cell is by using keyboard shortcuts. It is fast and easy to use.
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Double-click the cell (or press F2) to enter edit mode.
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Place your cursor where you want the new line. In the screenshot below,
\nrepresents where the new line will appear within the cell.
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Press:
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Windows/Chromebook: Ctrl + Enter
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Mac: Cmd + Enter
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The text will break into a new line within the same cell.
Note: For older Google Sheets versions, use Alt + Enter (Windows) or Option + Enter (Mac). You should also enable text wrapping to see the new lines properly (more on this later).
Using the CHAR Function (For Formulas)
If you’re working with formulas, using CHAR(10) allows you to insert a new line dynamically. This is useful when combining multiple values into a single cell with line breaks.
Example 1: Using CHAR(10) in CONCATENATE.
=CONCATENATE("First Line", CHAR(10), "Second Line")
This will display:
Example 2: Using CHAR(10) for cell merging.
=A2 & CHAR(10) & B2
If A1 contains "First name" and B1 contains "Last name", the cell will display:
Note: Remember to enable text wrapping to display the line breaks correctly (next section).
Enabling Text Wrapping (To View Line Breaks Correctly)
After inserting a new line using a shortcut or formula, the text might still appear on a single line. To fix this:
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Select the cell or range of cells.
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Click Format in the menu.
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Navigate to Wrapping.
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Select Wrap.
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Your text will now display with proper line breaks inside the cell.
Inserting New Lines on Mobile (Android & iOS)
If you’re using Google Sheets on mobile, inserting a new line isn’t as straightforward. Mobile formatting may also differ slightly from desktop.
For Android users:
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Open Google Sheets and tap the cell.
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Tap the formula bar at the top.
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Place the cursor where you want the new line.
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Tap Enter on your mobile keyboard.
For iOS users:
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Unfortunately, iOS keyboards don’t support line breaks in Google Sheets. The best workaround is to enter data on a desktop or use CHAR(10) in formulas.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, even after following the steps correctly, new lines might not appear as expected. Below are some common issues users face and their solutions.
1. New Line not appearing: Ensure text wrapping is enabled (Format > Wrapping > Wrap).
2. Keyboard shortcut not working: Double-check that the cell is in edit mode before pressing the shortcut.
3. Formulas displaying CHAR(10) instead of a line break: Confirm that text wrapping is enabled and you’re using CHAR(10) correctly.
Final Thoughts on "How To Insert a New Line in a Cell in Google Sheets"
Inserting a new line in Google Sheets is easy once you know the right shortcuts and methods. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts, formulas, or working on mobile, this guide covers all the information you need. If you found this guide helpful, share it with your colleagues or bookmark it for future reference.
For more easy-to-follow Excel guides and the latest Excel Templates, visit Simple Sheets and the related articles section of this blog post.
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FAQ on "How To Insert a New Line in a Cell in Google Sheets"
1. Can I insert a new line in Google Sheets without a shortcut?
Yes, you can use the CHAR(10) function in formulas to create line breaks within a cell.
2. Why is my new line not showing up?
Make sure text wrapping is enabled by going to Format > Wrapping > Wrap.
3. How do I add a new line in Google Sheets on mobile?
On Android, use the formula bar and tap enter. On iOS, line breaks are not directly supported; use a desktop for editing.
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