(This is much quicker than creating a list from within the Custom List preference pane.) To use your custom sort order, select the column or area you want sorted and choose Data -> Sort. Choose Excel -> Preferences and go to Custom Lists click on Import and then click on OK. You can do this by creating a custom sort list.Įnter the items in contiguous cells in the order you want, and select those cells. For instance, you may prefer to organize your expenditures by season, with summer listed first, instead of the alphabetical fall, spring, summer, winter.
But sometimes you need something beyond the built-in choices. When it comes to sorting data, Excel provides several standard sort options for numbers, dates, text, and so on.
Here are my five favorite Excel tips for everyday use and beyond. Whether you’re using Microsoft Excel 2008 ( $400 as part of Office 2008) or 2004, you need some tricks up your sleeve for easing day-to-day tasks, such as entering data or custom sorting, as well as for special situations, such as using colors not included on the Standard palette.
