How To Hide Columns in Google Sheets

Do you need to hide columns in Google Sheets?

Hiding columns is a simple way to focus on essential data without permanently deleting anything. Whether you’re working with large datasets or want to keep some details private, this feature can be a lifesaver. You can quickly hide and unhide columns with just a few clicks.

Let’s walk through the steps to hide columns in Google Sheets.

Right-click to Hide Columns

The simplest way to hide columns in Google Sheets is by right-clicking on the column header. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Select the column(s): Start by clicking on the header of the column you want to hide. For example, to hide column C, click on the "C" header at the top of the column. If you need to hide multiple columns, click and drag across the headers (e.g., columns C to E), or hold down the Ctrl (or Command on Mac) key and select multiple non-adjacent headers.

   

2. Right-click on the selected header(s): With the column or columns highlighted, right-click on one of the selected headers. This will open a context menu with various options.

   

3. Choose "Hide Column": From the menu, select the "Hide column" option. Instantly, the column(s) will disappear from your view. A small pair of arrows will appear between the adjacent columns, indicating hidden data.

   

Read more: How to rename a column in Google Sheets.

Using the Menu Bar to Hide Columns

Using the menu bar is ideal if you’re more comfortable with menu options rather than right-clicking, or if you’re working on a device where right-clicking is less convenient. This method is consistent across devices and easy to remember.

1. Select the column(s): Click the header of the desired columns.

2. Go to the format menu: Go to the Format menu in the top navigation bar. In some setups, you might also find column-hiding options under the View menu, depending on the version of Google Sheets you're using. However, the Format menu is typically where this option is found.

3. Choose “Hide Column” from the dropdown: In the Format menu, look for "Column" options, then select "Hide column." The selected columns will instantly be hidden from view.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts to Hide Columns

Keyboard shortcuts provide a fast and efficient way to hide columns in Google Sheets, saving you time by reducing clicks. Here’s how to use shortcuts for hiding columns:

1. Select the column(s): Select the column headings.

2. Use the keyboard shortcut:

   • On Windows, press Ctrl + Alt + 0 to hide the selected column(s).

   • On Mac, press Command + Option + 0.

How To Hide Non-adjacent Columns in Google Sheets

Follow these steps to hide non-adjacent columns in Google Sheets:

1. Select the columns: Click on the header of the first column you want to hide, then hold down the Ctrl key (or Command on Mac) and click the headers of other non-adjacent columns you want to hide.

   

2. Right-click to Hide: Once all desired columns are selected, right-click on any of the selected headers and choose "Hide columns" from the context menu.

   

How to Unhide Columns in Google Sheets

When you hide a column in Google Sheets, small gray arrows appear between the headers of the adjacent columns. These arrows act as markers for hidden columns, allowing you to quickly unhide them with a simple click.

1. Locate the arrows between columns: Find the arrows between the column headers where columns are hidden. For example, if column B is hidden, arrows will appear between columns A and C.

2. Click on the arrows: Hover over the arrows; they should be clickable. Click directly on them to reveal the hidden column. The hidden column (or columns) will instantly reappear.

   

3. Unhiding multiple columns: If you have hidden multiple columns consecutively (e.g., columns D, E, and F), clicking the arrows between columns C and G will reveal all hidden columns in that range. You only need to click once to unhide all columns hidden between two visible columns.

Hiding Columns Using AI in Google Sheets

AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and Gemini conveniently automate repetitive tasks in Google Sheets, including hiding columns. This is how to use them:

Step 1: Select the column(s) to hide.

Identify the columns you’d like to hide. For instance, if you want to hide columns B and C, make a mental note or select these columns to ensure the correct inputs for AI-generated instructions.

Step 2: Using AI to generate the right code or commands.

Now, it’s time to use AI to create a solution for hiding columns. Here’s how to use ChatGPT or a similar AI tool to get step-by-step instructions or even a script:

1. Prompt example: Ask ChatGPT something like, “How do I hide columns B and C in Google Sheets?”

2. Review the response: ChatGPT might provide detailed steps or even a short Google Apps Script code snippet.

For example, ChatGPT might suggest using a Google Apps Script that automatically hides specific columns. The AI-generated script might look like this:

function hideColumns() {

var sheet = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSpreadsheet().getActiveSheet();

sheet.hideColumns(2, 2); // Hides columns B and C

}

Note: In this script, the numbers “2, 2” refer to starting from the second column and hiding two columns in total.

Step 4: Executing the AI-generated command.

If ChatGPT provides Apps Script code:

1. Open the Script Editor: In Google Sheets, go to Extensions > Apps Script.

   

2. Paste the script: Delete any placeholder code and paste the AI-generated code.

3. Save and run: Click the save icon, then click the “Run” button to execute the script.

Final Thoughts on "How To Hide Columns in Google sheets"

Hiding columns in Google Sheets can streamline your workflow and make data easier to manage. Whether using manual methods or AI tools like ChatGPT, you have flexible options to fit your needs. Master these techniques to stay organized and boost productivity in any spreadsheet project.

Go to Simple Sheets for more easy-to-follow guides and examples. Remember to visit the related articles section of this blog post.

Subscribe to Simple Sheets on YouTube for the most straightforward Excel video tutorials!

FAQ on "How To Hide Columns in Google sheets"

1. How do I unhide a column in Google Sheets?
To unhide a column, click on the small arrows between adjacent column headers. This will instantly reveal any hidden columns in that range.

2. Can I hide multiple columns at once?
Yes, select the headers of all columns you want to hide, then right-click and choose "Hide column." This will hide all selected columns in a single step.

3. Can ChatGPT help me automate hiding columns?
Yes, ChatGPT can guide you through the steps or generate a Google Apps Script to automate hiding columns. Just provide the column details, and it will create the code for you.

Related Articles

How to Add Numbers in Google Sheets

How to Use XLOOKUP in Google Sheets

How to Make a Pie Chart in Google Sheets