How to remove blank columns in Excel

This tutorial demonstrates several methods for efficiently removing empty columns from your Excel spreadsheets, avoiding the pitfalls of manual deletion. We'll explore VBA macros, formulas, and a streamlined add-in solution.

The Wrong Way (and Why You Shouldn't Do It)

Many suggest using "Go To Special" > "Blanks" to delete empty columns. Avoid this! This selects all empty cells, and deleting entire columns based on this selection will remove any column containing even a single blank cell—potentially losing valuable data.

Method 1: VBA Macro for Efficient Deletion

The most efficient approach involves a VBA macro. This macro safely deletes only entirely empty columns, leaving columns with any data (even a formula returning an empty string) intact.

Public Sub DeleteEmptyColumns()
    Dim SourceRange As Range
    Dim EntireColumn As Range
    On Error Resume Next
    Set SourceRange = Application.InputBox("Select a range:", "Delete Empty Columns", Application.Selection.Address, Type:=8)
    If Not (SourceRange Is Nothing) Then
        Application.ScreenUpdating = False
        For i = SourceRange.Columns.Count To 1 Step -1
            Set EntireColumn = SourceRange.Cells(1, i).EntireColumn
            If Application.WorksheetFunction.CountA(EntireColumn) = 0 Then
                EntireColumn.Delete
            End If
        Next
        Application.ScreenUpdating = True
    End If
End Sub

To use this macro:

1. Open the VBA editor (Alt F11).
2. Insert a module (Insert > Module).
3. Paste the code.
4. Run the macro (F5), selecting your desired range.

Method 2: Formula-Based Identification and Deletion

For greater control, first identify empty columns using a formula. Insert a new row above your data and use this formula in the first cell: =COUNTA(A2:A1048576)=0. Copy this across all columns. TRUE indicates an empty column. You can then manually delete the columns marked TRUE, or sort by this row to group empty columns together for easier selection.

Method 3: One-Click Solution (Add-in)

For a truly one-click solution, consider using an Excel add-in like Ablebits Ultimate Suite. Its "Delete Blanks" feature allows for quick and safe removal of empty columns with a single click.

Troubleshooting: Columns Remain Undeleted

If columns remain after trying these methods, they likely contain invisible characters (spaces, non-breaking spaces, etc.). Use Ctrl Down Arrow to navigate to the last cell in the column and inspect its contents. Delete any unwanted characters.

Remember to always back up your workbook before performing any bulk deletion operations. Choose the method that best suits your comfort level and the size of your spreadsheet.

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