How To Insert Multiple Rows in Google Sheets: 7 Methods [2023]

Sumit, Chriselle Sy

Last updated October 12, 2023

Whether you’re completely new to spreadsheets or coming from a different program, you’ve probably wondered how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets. Luckily, doing so is simple.

There are many different methods for inserting multiple rows in Google Sheets. For example, you can insert a single row by selecting a row header, right-clicking, and choosing “insert a row above (or below).”

To help you insert multiple rows in Google Sheets, we compiled this article containing step-by-step guides on every method possible. Let’s jump right in!

This Article Covers:

How To Insert Multiple Rows in Google Sheets

There are many Google Sheets tips and tricks that can help you navigate through your spreadsheets with ease. Since you’re trying to learn how to insert many rows in Google Sheets, we’re sure you’ll be happy to know there are a few tricks for that, too!

Below, we’ve listed five of the best methods for adding multiple rows in your Google Sheet. Choose your preferred method and begin!

Quick Tip: Selecting Multiple Rows in Google Sheets

An example of how to select multiple rows in google sheets

You can select multiple rows at a time by holding the Shift key as you click on the rows. Hold Ctrl or CMD while clicking the row headers to select non-adjacent rows. Note that the number of rows you select will correspond to the number of rows you can insert.

How To Insert Multiple Rows in Google Sheets Using the Menu Method

In Google Sheets, to insert multiple rows, you can use the menu method as described below. Here’s how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets using this method:

Select a row by clicking on its row header on the left side of the screen. Hold down shift and click the starting and ending rows to select multiple.
On the top menu bar, click on “Insert” and then “Rows.” Select whether to insert your blank rows above or below your selected rows.

And that’s it — you’ve learned how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets using the menu bar!

How To Insert Multiple Rows in Google Sheets Using the Sidebar Method

There’s an even more convenient way to insert more than one row in Google Sheets: Using the right-click context or drop-down menu. This convenient method is the most accessible, as you won’t need to move your cursor anywhere.

Here’s how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets with the sidebar method:

Select a row by clicking on its row header on the left side of the screen. Hold down Shift and click the starting and ending rows to select multiple.

Right-click. On the resulting context menu, select “Insert Rows Above” (or Below).

And that’s all — you’ve inserted your new rows!

Using a Keyboard Shortcut for Adding Rows in Google Sheets

In a Google Sheet, to insert multiple rows, you can use one of the two methods above. However, did you know that there is a keyboard shortcut you can use to continue adding more rows to your sheet?

It’s worth mentioning that it’s not a direct shortcut for adding rows. Rather, it’s a shortcut that allows you to repeat your previous action. Thus, if you want to use the keyboard shortcut, you must first add your row(s) using one of the methods above.

The keyboard shortcut for Windows is F4. If you’re using a Mac, the shortcut is CMD + Y. It gets confusing on a Mac because CMD + Y is also the redo button. However, if there is nothing to redo, its default purpose is to repeat your previous action.

You can press F4 or CMD + Y to add rows to your Google spreadsheet. Google Sheets will add your rows according to your previous action. Thus, if your last action was to add rows above, then every keyboard shortcut will add rows above your selected row.

Using a Macro for Adding Multiple Rows in Google Sheets

Google Sheets has a macros feature that can sort of function like the keyboard shortcuts we just described. However, while the keyboard shortcuts can only repeat your previous action, macros allow you to do much more.

Macros let users record (and then play or repeat) a set of actions. Thus, you can add as many or as few functions as you wish.

Here’s how to add multiple rows in Google Sheets using the macros feature.

On your top menu bar, go to “Extensions” > “Macros” > “Record macro.”

You will see a dialog box informing you that you are recording a macro.

Now, add your rows as usual. When you add your new rows, the Google Sheets will remember your actions once you click save.
You can then name your macro and choose your shortcut. Click “Save” to finalize your macro.

You can access your new macro from the top menu by going to “Extensions” > “Macros.” Clicking on your new macro will perform the action you recorded prior. In our example, it will insert 3 rows above your selected row.

You may also press the keyboard shortcut you chose when creating your macro. This will allow you to act without clicking through any menus.

You can create as many macros as you want for various different actions to make Google Sheets even more convenient for you!

How To Add Rows in a Google Spreadsheet One at a Time

Now that you know how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets, you may wonder how to add one at a time. Thankfully, adding one row at a time is simple!

You can follow the steps above for using the menu or sidebar methods. All you have to do is select one row at a time instead of multiple, and you can add single rows.

How To Insert Multiple Rows at the Bottom of a Google Spreadsheet

By default, Google spreadsheets start with 1,000 existing rows. However, if you feel as though this isn’t enough, you can certainly add more. Thankfully, Google Sheets makes it incredibly easy to do so.

Here’s how:

Scroll all the way to the bottom of your spreadsheet.
You will see a feature that allows you to add however many rows you wish. Enter the number of rows you want to insert and click “Add.”

And that’s it! You’ve added the extra rows you need at the bottom of the spreadsheet. If you need to add more, repeat the steps you just took to insert multiple rows.

Related Reading: How to Group Rows and Columns in Google Sheets

Bonus: How To Add Multiple Rows in One Cell in Google Sheets

Adding multiple rows in one cell in a Google Spreadsheet isn’t possible just yet. However, you can have multiple lines in a single cell.

Google’s support page shows you how to add another line within a cell. With your chosen cell selected, you can add another line by pressing Ctrl + Enter or CMD + Enter. You can then enter your data as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Insert 1000 Rows in Google Sheets?

If you’d like to add the rows to the bottom of your spreadsheet, scroll to the bottom. You will see an option to add as many rows as you’d like to the bottom. Type the number of rows you wish, and click “Add.”

Alternatively, select 1000 rows using the row headers or the row number on the left side of the screen. Right-click and select “Insert 1000 rows above or below.”

Can You Insert a Row for Every Other Row in Google Sheets?

Yes, you can! Select every other row by holding Ctrl or CMD while clicking on row headers. Then, right-click and select whether to insert a row above or below.

If you want to do this to your entire spreadsheet, you can follow this guide on inserting a blank row every other row in Google Sheets.

What Is the Fastest Method of Inserting a Row in Google Sheets?

In my opinion, the fastest method is to right-click on a row header to insert a single row above or below it. You can also add multiple rows in this way. A macro is another speedy way to add rows to your Google Sheet, but this method requires some setup.

Conclusion

I hope this guide on how to insert multiple rows in Google Sheets has helped. Because many methods are available, choosing the most convenient to you is paramount to using Google Sheets easily. If you want a crash course on using Google Sheets and all its functions, formulas, and more, then take a look at this beginner to advanced masterclass! Good luck!

Ready to work on multiple Google Sheets spreadsheets? Check out how to copy a row to another sheet on Google Sheets!

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