Sorting data in Excel is a crucial step in data analysis, allowing you to organize and analyze information more effectively. However, there may be situations where you need to revert back to the original order of your data after performing a sorting operation.
In this article, we will explore various techniques to undo sorting in Excel and restore the original arrangement of your data. Whether you prefer using keyboard shortcuts or implementing advanced methods, we have got you covered. Let’s delve into the details and discover how you can effortlessly regain the original order of your data.
Different Methods to Undo Sorting in Excel
The Keyboard Shortcut:
The simplest way to undo sorting in Excel is by using a keyboard shortcut. After sorting your data, you can easily revert back to the original order by pressing Control + Z (Windows) or Command + Z (Mac).
This keyboard shortcut undoes the last action you performed, which in this case is the sorting operation. By pressing the keyboard shortcut immediately after sorting, you can restore your data to its previous unsorted state.
It’s worth noting that this shortcut only works for undoing the most recent action and cannot be used to undo multiple sorting actions.
The Helper Column Hack:
For more complex sorting scenarios, utilizing a helper column can be an effective method to restore the original order. Here’s a detailed explanation of the process:
- Add a Helper Column: Begin by adding a new column to your worksheet. This column will serve as the helper column to facilitate the restoration of the original order.
- Label the Helper Column: Give the newly inserted column a suitable label, such as “Helper” or “Sequence.” This labeling will help you identify its purpose and distinguish it from other columns in your dataset.
- Populate the Helper Column: In the helper column, enter sequential numbers corresponding to the rows in your dataset. Start with the number 1 for the first row and continue incrementing by one for each subsequent row. These numbers will act as a reference for the original order of your data.
- Sort the Data: Select the entire dataset, including the helper column and sort it according to the sales volume values.
- Go to the “Data” tab, click on the “Sort” icon, and specify the helper column as the primary sort column. Choose the appropriate sort order (ascending or descending) based on your original sorting criteria. Click “Ok” to sort the data according to the values in the helper column.
- Restore the Original Order: To revert back to the original order, repeat the sorting process. Select the dataset, including the helper column, and access the “Sort” dialog box. This time, choose the helper column as the primary sort column, ensuring that the sort order is consistent with the original sorting criteria.
- Click “Ok” to restore your data to its original order, with the helper column values representing the initial sequence.
By utilizing a helper column, you can retain the flexibility to perform multiple sorting operations while having the ability to restore the original order whenever needed. This method proves particularly useful when you have made additional changes or modifications to your data after the initial sorting operation.
The Back-Up Plan:
To ensure the ability to revert to the original dataset after sorting, it’s prudent to create a backup copy of your data. Here are two approaches you can consider:
Create a Copy of the Worksheet and Hide It: Duplicate the worksheet containing your data and hide the copy. This way, you have a readily available backup copy that remains hidden until required. If you need to retrieve the original data in the future, simply unhide the backup worksheet and access the unsorted data.
Create a Copy of the Entire Workbook: Another option is to create a copy of the entire workbook. This ensures that all worksheets, including the original dataset, are duplicated. By doing so, you have a comprehensive backup of your data, providing the ability to restore the original order regardless of the worksheet in which the sorting was performed.
Creating a backup copy safeguards your data and allows you to maintain the integrity of your original dataset, even after sorting and making subsequent changes.
Conclusion:
Sorting data in Excel is a powerful tool for data analysis, but it’s equally important to have the capability to undo sorting and restore the original order when necessary. In this article, we have explored various techniques to accomplish this task effectively.
Whether you choose to use keyboard shortcuts or implement advanced methods like the helper column or creating backups, each approach provides you with the means to regain the original arrangement of your data.
By mastering these techniques, you can confidently manipulate and analyze your data in Excel, knowing that you can always revert back to the original order.
Having this ability ensures the integrity of your data analysis process and saves you valuable time and effort. So go ahead, explore these methods, and make the most out of Excel’s powerful sorting capabilities while maintaining control over your data.
