How to Remove Filter From Excel

As an expert in Microsoft Excel, one of the common issues I have come across is the need to remove filters from Excel. Filters are a useful tool for sorting and analyzing data in Excel. However, there are instances where you may need to remove them either to switch between different sets of data or to clear the filtered view entirely. In this blog post, I will guide you on the simple steps to follow in order to remove filters from your Excel worksheet. With these steps, you can easily remove unwanted filters and focus on the data that matter for your analysis.

What is a Filter in Excel?

Excel filters are tools that allow you to sort and analyze data based on specific criteria. It’s a feature that helps you focus on specific parts of a large dataset or quickly find the information you need. Using filters can be a great way to remove clutter from your Excel sheet and work with the data you need. However, filters are only beneficial to you if you know how to remove them effectively when they are no longer needed. This article will teach you how to remove the filter from Excel and help you get the most out of your data.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Filters from Excel

Follow this simple guide to remove filters from Excel:

Step 1: Select the Range

You must first select the range to which the filter was applied in your Excel worksheet. To do this, click any cell within the range. Alternatively, highlight the cells you want to remove filters from.

Step 2: Open the Data Tab

Click on the “Data” tab on top of the Excel toolbar. This tab contains the tools you need to manipulate your cell data.

Step 3: Click “Clear”

Under the Data tab, locate the “Sort & Filter” section and click on “Clear”. Then select “Clear Filter from Selected Cells” from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: Remove all Filters

If you want to remove all filters from the worksheet, you can simply click on the “Clear” icon and “Clear Filters” from the dropdown menu. This option will clear all filters from your worksheet.

Tips for Working with Excel Filters

Here are some additional tips you can use when working with filters in Excel:

1. Be Clear on the Criteria You Need to Focus on

Before you apply filters to your Excel sheet, it’s crucial that you are clear on the specific criteria you want to analyze. This will help you make better decisions on the type of filter to use.

2. Avoid Over Filtering

Although filters can help you work with data quickly, it’s important to avoid over-filtration, which might mask some essential information in your spreadsheet. As a rule of thumb, be clear on what you want to analyze and filter only that subset of data.

3. Use the Custom Filters Feature

Excel comes with a handy feature called Custom Filters. With Custom Filters, you can create and apply custom criteria that suit your needs. This feature is particularly useful when you need to work with complex datasets.

4. Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Excel has several keyboard shortcuts that can help you work with your data more effectively. Some of the commonly used shortcuts for working with filters include “Ctrl+Shift+L” to apply a filter and “Alt+Down Arrow” to open a filter drop-down menu.

Removing filters from Excel is a simple, but essential task that can help you work with your data more effectively. By following this guide, you can remove all current filters or filters for selected cells. You can also benefit from some tips that will help you make the most of filters in Excel.

Alternatives to Removing Excel Filters: Clear Filter vs. Reapply Filter

If you only want to remove filters in a single column, you can do so by clicking on the arrow icon in the specific column and selecting “Clear Filter”. This option will remove the filter in the selected column while keeping the other filter criteria intact.

Alternatively, you can also reapply the filter to the table (or any selected range) by clicking on the “Filter” option in the “Sort & Filter” section under the “Data” tab. This will allow you to select the same filters you had applied previously without having to start the process from scratch.

What to Do When Your Excel Sheet Does Not Allow for Filter Removal

If you are unable to remove the filter from your worksheet, it could be that the cells have been locked in your Excel workbook. In this case, you can unlock your Excel sheet by following these steps:

Step 1: Open the Review tab

Click on the “Review” tab on the Excel toolbar.

Step 2: Click “Unprotect Sheet”

Under the “Review” tab, locate the button named “Unprotect Sheet” and click on it. This will allow you to make changes to the worksheet.

Step 3: Remove filters

Now proceed to remove filters by following the same steps outlined above under “Step-by-Step Guide”.

Final Thoughts

Removing filters from Excel is essential when you need to switch between different sets of data or clear filtered views. Excel provides a simple and straightforward way to remove filters from any worksheet or range of cells. By following these steps, you can focus on the data that matter for your analysis and work effectively with your Excel sheet.

Remember to be clear on the criteria you need to focus on when applying filters and avoid over-filtration if you want to avoid masking essential information in your spreadsheet. Additionally, use the Custom Filters feature and keyboard shortcuts when working with filters to make your work easier and more efficient.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that people ask about removing Excel filters:

1. Why does my Excel sheet keep reapplying filters even after I clear them?

If your Excel sheet is continually reapplying filters, you may have applied a filter to the entire worksheet or a larger range than you intended. To remove such a filter, you will need to select the entire range of cells and follow the steps above to remove the filter.

2. Can I remove Excel filters from my mobile device?

Yes, you can remove Excel filters from your mobile device by selecting the range with the filter, opening the Data tab, and then clicking on “Clear” and “Clear Filters from Selected Cells.”

3. Will removing filters from an Excel sheet affect other users?

No, removing filters from an Excel sheet will not affect other users unless they are sharing the same sheet. If you are sharing the same sheet, it’s essential to coordinate with other users to avoid losing each other’s progress.

4. How do I remove filters when I can’t find the “Data” tab?

If you can’t find the “Data” tab, you can press the “Alt” key to reveal the toolbars. This will show you the options you need to access the “Data” tab.

5. What are some of the common mistakes people make when removing filters?

Some common mistakes people make when removing filters include forgetting to select the entire range of cells, attempting to remove filters from a protected sheet, and applying too many filters that mask essential information. It’s important to be careful when removing filters and to double-check to make sure you remove them only where necessary.