Border Not Showing in Excel – 6 Solutions

This is the sample dataset.

Solution 1 – Changing Line Color

In the following dataset some cells have no borders because the Borders line color is white.

This is the print:

Reasons:

• The color of the border is white.
• The color of the border matches the paper color.
• The Fill color matches the color of the border.

Solution:

• In the Home tab >> go to Borders.
• In Line Color >> choose any dark color

• Draw the missing borders with the Pencil.

• Alternatively select the cells to apply new borders.
• Choose All Borders from the Borders menu in the Home tab.

The dataset has visible borders.

• This is the print. Press CTRL+P to get a print preview.

Read More: How to Insert Border in Excel

Solution 2 – Use the Format Cells Feature

Solution:

• Select the data.
• Press CTRL+1.

Alternatively, Right Click the data and select Format Cells from the Context Menu Bar.

• In the Format Cells dialog box choose Border.
• Select both Outline and Inside.
• Check the Color (choose a dark color).
• Click OK.

Borders will be visible.

Read More: How to Add Cell Borders Inside and Outside in Excel

Solution 3 – Expand the Size of Cells

In the following dataset cells are compressed.

In the print, borders are not showing.

Solution:

• Expand the columns using the Mouse cursor.

• All Borders are now visible.
• 

Read More: How to Apply All Borders in Excel

Solution 4 – Applying Color Index in Cells Using VBA

In the following dataset the VBA Color Index and an alternate row colors formula were used.

All Borders are visible.

Read More: How to Add or Remove Dotted Border in Excel

Solution 5 – Don’t Merge Cells

If cells are merged, Borders will not show.

Solution:

• Select your data.
• Go to the Home tab >> in Alignment choose Merge & center.

• Select your data again.
• In the Home tab >> choose All Borders.

Borders will be visible.

Read More: How to Change Border Color in Excel

Solution 6. Unprotect the Worksheet in Excel

If your Excel file is protected, borders may not show.

• Unprotect your worksheet to keep borders visible.
• Keep all cells visible.
• Unhide all rows and columns.

Read More: How to Lock Borders in Excel

Practice Section

Practice here.

Download Practice Workbook

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• How to Make Graph Paper in Excel
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