Deleting a row that contains totals in Excel is done using the standard method for deleting any row. Whether the row contains a total calculation, regular data, or is empty, the steps remain the same. The most common ways to delete a row are using the right-click context menu or the Excel Ribbon.
Method 1: Using the Right-Click Context Menu
This method is quick and intuitive, directly accessing the delete function from your selected row(s).
Here's how to do it:
- Select the Row(s): Click on the row number on the far left of the Excel sheet to select the entire row. To select multiple adjacent rows, click and drag down the row numbers. To select multiple non-adjacent rows, hold down the
Ctrlkey while clicking on each row number. - Right-Click: Once the row(s) are selected, right-click anywhere within the selected area. As the reference notes, "Next right click and you'll see a pop-up box appear."
- Select 'Delete': In the pop-up menu that appears, find and "go down to the word delete."
- Left-Click 'Delete': "And left click on it and the row will be deleted." This action removes the entire selected row(s) and "really the contents of the row have been deleted" along with it, shifting rows below up.
This method efficiently removes the row, including any formulas or values, such as totals, that it contained.
Quick Steps for Right-Click Delete
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Select | Click row number(s) |
| 2. Right-Click | Click on selected row(s) |
| 3. Delete | Choose 'Delete' from menu |
Method 2: Using the Ribbon
Another common way to delete rows is through the Home tab on the Excel Ribbon.
- Select the Row(s): Select the row(s) you wish to delete by clicking the row number(s) on the left.
- Go to the Home Tab: Ensure you are on the Home tab of the Excel Ribbon.
- Find the Cells Group: Look for the Cells group towards the right side of the Home tab.
- Click 'Delete': Within the Cells group, click the Delete button.
- Select 'Delete Sheet Rows': From the dropdown menu under the Delete button, select Delete Sheet Rows.
This will remove the selected row(s).
Deleting Rows Containing Totals
Whether the row you want to delete is a dedicated "Total Row" in an Excel Table (often inserted via the Table Design tab) or simply a row where you've manually entered a summing formula, the deletion process is the same as outlined above. Selecting the row and using either the right-click method or the Ribbon method will remove it completely.
Using these methods ensures that the selected row(s), regardless of content, are permanently removed from your worksheet.
