How to Expand Cells to Fit the Text Automatically in Excel

We all know how useful Excel is to store tabular data. We can do calculations in excel, we can store any information that is in the form of tables, and so on. But there are some common problems that we all face while using Excel. One of the problems that we encounter while entering oversized, overlength data in a cell.

Expanding cells to fit text automatically can save you time and make your spreadsheets cleaner and more professional. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, practical steps to adjust cell sizes effortlessly, ensuring your data is fully visible and easy to work with, no matter your Excel experience level.

Need to Expand Cells in Excel

Expanding cells in Excel is essential for improving the readability, professionalism, and functionality of your spreadsheets. When text or numbers are cut off or hidden due to insufficient cell size, it can lead to confusion, errors, or an unpolished appearance.

• Enhances Readability: Ensures all text is fully visible, avoiding truncation.
• Boosts Professionalism: Creates clean, organized spreadsheets for reports.
• Prevents Errors: Displays complete data to avoid misinterpretation.
• Saves Time: Auto-fit features eliminate manual resizing.
• Adapts to Dynamic Data: Adjusts to varying text lengths automatically.
• Accessibility: Improves legibility for all users, including those with visual impairments.

How to Make Rows/Columns Fit Text Automatically in Excel

Initially, we have a table with column names “Name” and “Address".

When we enter the data in the cells the data does not get fully fitted in the cells.

Now, let's look at the steps to be followed:

Methods 1: Using VBA

Step 1: Right-click on the sheet name in the bottom-left corner.

Step 2: Now select “View Code”.

Step 3: Select “Worksheet” from the drop-down menu as shown in the image.

Step 4: You will see a console window with some code.

Now, Enter the below code of the line in the console on the second line.

Cells.EntireColumn.AutoFit

Now close the window from the file menu.

Step 5: To check if the code is working or not simply click on any cell and press “Enter”. You’ll see that the Column width is now changed as per the length of the data.

Below video will help you to better understand these steps:

Note: To make this feature available permanently for this sheet simply save the file once. So, later, whenever you open the sheet you will still have this feature.

Methods 2: Using Warp Text

Wrap Text breaks long text into multiple lines within a cell, increasing row height to display all content without changing column width.

Step 1: Open your worksheet and identify cells with long text (e.g., B2 with a product description).

Step 2: Select the cell(s) by clicking them or dragging over a range (e.g., B2:B10).

Step 3: Go to the Home tab.

Step 4: In the Alignment group, click the Wrap Text button (it toggles on/off).

Step 5: Observe the text wrapping within the cell and the row height adjusting automatically.

Step 6: Optionally, adjust column width manually (see Method 5) for better appearance.

Conclusion

Expanding cells to fit text automatically in Excel is a game-changer for creating clear, professional spreadsheets. With methods like AutoFit, Wrap Text, and Format as Table, you can ensure all data is visible and accessible, saving time and reducing errors. These techniques, combined with other formatting skills like number formatting or dashboards (as explored in your earlier queries), will make your spreadsheets stand out.