How to Apply Margin Setting in Excel (2 Handy Approaches)

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Microsoft Excel is one of the most important and capable computer applications. We can do endless computations on any dataset using Excel’s features and tools. This post will cover two practical methods to implement margin settings in Excel. Therefore, using these two practical approaches, you should apply the Margin Setting in Excel.


How to Apply Margin Setting in Excel: 2 Handy Approaches

The blank area that exists between the data on the worksheet and the left, right, top, and bottom borders of the printed page is referred to as the margin. We may use page margins at the top and bottom for various purposes, including headers, footers, and page numbers. Even though Excel for the Web doesn’t let you set page margins, the Page Layout tab has some alternatives for setting up documents.

The following dataset is an example; it contains columns labeled Name, State, Population, and Density. We will utilize these two handy approaches in implementing margin settings for this dataset. I’m writing this blog using Microsoft Excel 365, which I have yet to mention. Nevertheless, you can use any other edition that affords the most significant degree of convenience.

margin setting in excel


1. Use Predefined Margin Setting in Excel

Excel allows us to have some predetermined margins. The main advantage of using this margin is that it saves time. We can use a predefined margin in two ways. One way we can use predefined margin settings is from the Print Option. Another option is to use the Page Layout Tab.


1.1 Through Print Option in File Menu

Excel has 3 preset margin configurations. The Normal, Wide, and Narrow margin options are available. Not only can we modify the margin, but we also can see the output at the same time. Follow these steps to use the predefined margin settings from the Print option in Excel.

STEPS:

  • First, select the active sheet.
  • Second, go to File.

Use Predefined Margin Setting in Excel

  • After that, click Print, then Normal Margin Setting.
  • As a result, three options for Margin Settings will pop up.

Margin Setting though page layout tab in Excel

  • For demonstration, select Normal.
  • As a result, you’ll see the intended outcome on the preview pane.

Output of Normal Predefined Margin Setting

  • For selecting Wide, the expected return output is as follows.

Output of Wide Predefined Margin Setting

  • The intended return output for choosing Narrow is shown below.

Output of Narrow Predefined Margin Setting


1.2 From Page Layout Tab

Using the Page Layout Tab is an exciting and easy way to get the same thing as before. However, we need help seeing the demonstration and the changes we make. Follow the instructions below to apply margin settings via the Page Layout Tab.

STEPS:

  • First, select the active sheet.
  • Second, navigate to Page Layout, then Margins.

From Page Layout Tab

  • Consequently, three predefined Margin Settings options will pop out.
  • Now, choose from Normal, Wide, or Narrow to achieve the desired margin.

From Page Layout Tab

Read More: How to Change Page Margins to Wide in Excel


2. Apply Custom Margin Setting in Excel

Default margin settings are not enough sometimes. That’s why custom margins are possible in Excel. To properly align an Excel worksheet on a printed page, you may adjust the margins, define custom margins, or center the worksheet horizontally or vertically. The Page Layout Tab allows us to utilize specified margin values. Use the Print Option as an alternative.


2.1 From Print Option in File Menu

Implementing Custom Margin Settings through the print option has significant advantages mentioned earlier. It is satisfactory to see how our changes affect the document. To apply custom margin values using the Print Option, follow the steps below.

STEPS:

  • First, pick the sheet that you will use.
  • Second, go over to File.

Custom margin From Print Option in File Menu

  • Now, click Print, followed by Normal Margin, then tap Custom Margins.

  • Consequently, the Page Setup window comes up.
  • Make the desired changes.
  • Here, we will change the Left margin to 2 as well as the Top margin to 2.
  • Hit OK.

  • Consequently, click Print Preview to get the desired output, as seen below.


2.2 Through Page Layout Tab

Using the Page Layout Tab to apply custom margin values is an exciting and common continuing intention. However, we need assistance perceiving the modifications we make. You can use the Print Option’s procedures below to set your margins.

STEPS:

  • First, select the active sheet to start.
  • Second, choose Page Layout and then Margins.

Through Page Layout Tab

  • Due to this, the Custom Margin Settings option will become available.
  • Now, select Custom Margins.

Through Page Layout Tab

  • Without a doubt, the Page Setup Icon is more efficient for getting the Page Setup window.

Through Page Layout Tab

  • As a result, the Page Setup box appears.
  • After making the required adjustments, press OK.

Read More: How to Change Margins in Excel


Download Practice Workbook

You are welcome to download a free copy of the sample workbook located just below; we utilized it during the whole session.


Conclusion

You can now alter the Margin Settings in Excel using the steps above. Let us know if you have other ways to do the task or new ideas. Remember to put your questions, comments, or suggestions below.


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Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
Lutfor Rahman Shimanto

Hi there! I am Lutfor Rahman Shimanto. I have completed my graduation in Information Technology from Jahangirnagar University. Currently, I am working as a technical content writer at ExcelDemy. You will find all my articles on Microsoft Excel on this site. Outside of work, I enjoy Chess a lot. I am a founding member of the Jahangirnagar University Chess Club and an internationally rated chess player.

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