How to Insert a Column Between Every Other Column in Excel (3 Methods)

We’ll use the following dataset that represents some fruit prices for three consecutive months.

Method 1 – Use a Keyboard Shortcut to Insert a Blank Column Between Every Other Column in Excel

Steps:

• Select all the columns excluding the first column by holding Ctrl and clicking on the column letters.
• Press Ctrl + Shift + Plus (+).

Excel has added a column between every other column.

Read More: How to Insert a Column to the Left in Excel

Method 2 – Using a Helper Row and the Sort Feature to Insert a Blank Column Between Every Other Column

Steps:

• Insert a new row just right above the dataset.
• Put 1 and 2 in the first two cells in the row.
• Use the Flash Fill tool to extend the values to the rest of the row.

Here’s the result.

• Copy all the numbered cells and paste them right after the last number in the same row.

• Select the whole dataset by clicking and dragging.
• In Home, go to Sort & Filter and choose Custom Sort.

A dialog box will open up soon.

• Click Options.

• Mark Sort left to right and press OK.

• Click on the drop-down icon from the Sort by box and select the row number of the added row. We selected Row 4.
• Press OK.

This distributes the values, making extra columns between each one.

• Delete the added row.

Method 3 – Embed a VBA Macro to Insert a Blank Column Between Every Other Column in Excel

Steps:

• Press Alt + F11 to open the VBA window.
• Go to Insert and select Module.

• Insert the following codes in the module:

Sub Insert_Column_Between_Every_Other()
For Xcol = 3 To 8 Step 2
Columns(Xcol).Insert Shift:=xlToRight
Next
End Sub

• Click the Run icon.

Here’s the output.

Practice Section

You will get a practice sheet in the Excel file given above to practice the explained methods.

Download the Practice Workbook

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