How to Create Multiple Lines in a Single Cell (4 Methods)

Dataset Overview

In our dataset, within the first column labeled “Test Line,” we encounter longer text that doesn’t fit neatly into individual cells. Let’s explore how to address this issue.

Method 1 – Insert Line Breaks

We can make two lines in Excel by inserting a line break. The process is explained below:

Select the Cell: Start by choosing the cell where the complete text is not fully visible. For example, let’s say we’re working with Cell B5 in our dataset.
Access the Formula Bar: In the formula bar, you might see something like John Class 5, but in the actual sheet, only John Class is displayed.

Insert a Line Break: Press Alt + Enter within the cell. This action adds a line break, allowing you to split the content into two lines.

Adjust Cell Height: The two lines may not display correctly due to the limited cell height. Double-click the bottom bar of the row number corresponding to the cell (as shown in the image) to adjust the cell height.

Verify Proper Display: After adjusting the cell height, both lines should now be visible and properly formatted.

Adding More Lines: To add additional lines, simply press Alt + Enter whenever you need a new line within the same cell.

Method 2 – Using “Wrap Text” to Create Two Lines in a Single Excell Cell

Select the Cell: Begin by choosing the cell where the complete text is not fully visible. For instance, let’s consider Cell B6 in our dataset.
Formula Bar View: In the formula bar, you might see something like Alisa Class 1, but in the actual sheet, only Alisa Class is displayed.

Wrap Text Command: Navigate to the Home tab. From the group of commands, select Wrap Text.

Resulting Two Lines: After applying the Wrap Text command, the cell will now display two lines. However, due to the fixed cell height, the lines may not show properly.

Adjust Cell Height: Double-click the bottom bar of the corresponding row number (as shown in step 3 of the first method) to adjust the cell height. This ensures that both lines are visible and properly formatted.

Desired Outcome: By following these steps, you’ll achieve the desired result of having two lines within a single cell.

Method 3 – Creating a Line Break After a Specific Character in Excel

Character Placement: To use this method, insert a comma (“,”) after John in Cell B5.

Find and Replace:
- Press Ctrl+H to open the Find and Replace window.

- In the Find what box, enter a comma (“,”).
- In the Replace with box, press Ctrl + J to represent a line break.
- Click Replace All.
- A pop-up will indicate how many replacements were made.
- Press OK.

Adjust Row Height:
- You’ll notice that a new line has been created, but the full sentence isn’t displayed.
- Adjust the row height as shown in the previous method to ensure proper visibility.

Desired Outcome: After following these steps, you’ll have a new line within the same cell, displaying the full text correctly.

Method 4 – Using Merge & Center to Create Two Lines in a Single Cell

Select Cell B5:
- When the text doesn’t fit within a single cell (as seen in Cell B5), it extends beyond the cell boundaries.

Select Cells B5 & B6:
- Highlight both Cells B5 and B6.
- Go to the Home tab.
- Choose Merge & Center from the commands.

Initial Result:
- After selecting Merge & Center, the cell will display the return value.
- However, similar to the previous method, all words may not show properly due to fixed cell height.