How to Print Column and Row Headings in Google Sheets

Are you tired of not being able to print column and row headings in Google Sheets? Well, you’re not alone! Unfortunately, Google Sheets does not offer an option to include these headings in the print menu settings. But don’t worry, I’ve got a quick workaround for you that will solve this problem in no time!

The Workaround to Print Column and Row Headings in Google Sheets

Before we dive into the solution, let me explain what column and row headings are. In Google Sheets, these headings are the labels that identify the columns and rows of your spreadsheet. They are essential for understanding and organizing your data.

Here’s a sample image to give you a visual reference of the column and row headings we’re talking about:

print column and row headings in Google Sheets

Unfortunately, these headings are currently outside the print area in Google Sheets, meaning they won’t be included when you print your spreadsheet. But fret not, I have a workaround that will solve this issue!

Spreadsheet Settings

Follow these steps to set up your spreadsheet and print settings correctly:

  1. Click on cell A1 and right-click to select “Insert Row.”
  2. Once again, click on cell A1 and right-click to select “Insert Column” (unless you already have data in your spreadsheet, in which case, you can skip steps 1 and 2).
  3. Click on the column heading “A” to select the entire column A. Then, right-click and choose “Resize the column.” Set the column width to 21 to match the row width and click “OK.”
  4. In cell A2, insert the ROW function-based formula =row(A1). Then, click on cell A2. You’ll notice a blue square, called the FILL HANDLE, at the bottom right corner of the cell. Click and drag it down to the 8th row or until you reach the row where you want the row headings to appear.
  5. In cell B1, insert the formula =regexreplace(address(1,COLUMN(A1)),"[^A-Z]",""). Then, drag the blue square to the right, up to cell F1 or the desired column heading you want to print.

Once you’ve completed these steps, click on cell A2, go to the menu “View > Freeze > 1 row.” And voila! You’re all set to print the column and row headings in Google Sheets.

data for printing after formatting

Print Settings to Print Column and Row Headings

To access the print settings in Google Sheets, you can either use the universal shortcut “Ctrl+P” or go to “File > Print.”

Inside the print settings, you have a few options to tweak:

  • You can change the “Page orientation” to “Portrait” if you prefer.
  • Under the “Formatting” section, make sure to select/enable “Show gridlines.”
  • Lastly, under “Headers and footers,” enable “Repeat frozen rows.”

That’s it! Now, when you print your spreadsheet, the column and row headings will be included.

print result - preview

A Quick Tip

If you only have one page and you want to print just the column and row headings, there’s a nifty alternative to the above settings. Simply disconnect your internet connection and wait for a moment. Then, check the print preview. You’ll notice that the out-of-the-area column and row headings are now included!

quick workaround to print column and row headings in Google Sheets

Keep in mind that this method has a few drawbacks. It will also print the tab names at the bottom, include the content above the column headings (such as menus and shortcut icons), and the printout will resemble a screenshot.

Resources

If you’re interested in learning more about Google Sheets and enhancing your productivity, check out these helpful resources:

  1. How to Autofill Alphabets in Google Sheets
  2. How to Use Roman Numbers in Google Sheets
  3. Clean Function in Google Sheets and Non-Printable Characters
  4. How to Use Sequence Function in Google Sheets
  5. Freeze Pane in Google Sheets and Use It as Header
  6. How to Repeat Page Titles in Google Doc Spreadsheet

Now that you know this handy workaround, you can confidently print your Google Sheets with column and row headings. Happy printing!

Crawlan.com

Related posts