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FilipDevallius's avatar
FilipDevallius
Copper Contributor
Jan 13, 2025

Insert Options button on Mac

Hi, I want to insert a new column in a table. However, I want that column to be blank. Thus, I must use the "Insert Options" button after I have inserted the column. I cannot find this button...
Excel on Mac
NikolinoDE's avatar
NikolinoDE
Platinum Contributor
Jan 19, 2025

On Excel for Mac, the Insert Options button doesn't always behave the same as it does on the Windows version. If you've already ensured that "Show Insert Options" is enabled in the settings but the button still isn't showing, here are some tips and alternatives to achieve your goal:

The Insert Options button is context-sensitive and might not always show when inserting columns on a Mac.

It may not appear in certain scenarios, such as inserting columns in a table instead of a plain range.

Workarounds for Inserting a Blank Column

Here’s how you can insert a blank column and ensure it remains blank:

  1. Insert Column and Clear Formatting
  1. Right-click the header of the column next to where you want the new column.
  2. Select Insert.
  3. The new column may inherit formatting from the adjacent column. If so:
    • Select the column.
    • Go to Home > Clear and choose Clear Formats to reset it to a blank state.
  1. Insert a Blank Column in a Table
  1. Click anywhere inside your table.
  2. Go to the Table Design tab (or Table > Add Column in some versions).
  3. Insert the column by:
    • Right-clicking on the header and selecting Insert Column.
    • The new column should automatically be blank.
  1. Use Keyboard Shortcuts
  • Select the column where you want the new column to appear (e.g., column B).
  • Press Control + Space to select the column.
  • Use Command + Shift + "+" to insert a new blank column.

Double-Check Settings

Ensure the Insert Options button is enabled in settings:

  1. Go to Excel > Preferences.
  2. Under Edit, make sure Show Insert Options buttons is checked.

Use Power Query for Advanced Table Edits

If you’re working with structured data and need to ensure a blank column:

  1. Open Power Query Editor (under Data > Get Data).
  2. Insert a new column and define its content (or leave it blank).
  3. Load the data back into Excel.

Consider Resetting Excel Preferences

If the feature isn’t working as expected:

  1. Close Excel.
  2. Navigate to ~/Library/Preferences.
  3. Find and delete the file com.microsoft.Excel.plist (this resets Excel preferences).
  4. Restart Excel and try again.

The text was created with the help of AI.

 

My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

 

Hope this will help you.

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