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2 Easiest Way to Rename Columns in Google Sheets on PC/iOS/Android

December 11, 2023 3.3K views

As you finally complete the intricate task of assembling your data in Google Sheets, carefully inputting values and formulas, a realization strikes: one column needs a different label. The urge to fix it before sending or submitting is strong, but uncertainty looms on how to proceed. In this article, we guide you on how to rename columns in Google Sheets seamlessly. Whether you're using a computer, tablet, or any operating system,  our instructions cater to all, ensuring you can effortlessly rectify column types before submitting or sharing your crucial data.

Rename Columns in Google Sheets

How to Rename Columns Easily by Adding a Header Row

In this tutorial, we will learn how to rename columns in Google Sheets by incorporating a header row. While this approach may be indirect, it offers enhanced visibility and clarity for your audience. The method involves adding a new cell above the data to serve as the column header.

Step 1: Assume we have data in column A and intend to designate a header column. Click on the topmost empty cell in column A. If none exists, right-click and select Insert cells > Insert cells and shift down.

Google Sheets insert cell


Step 2: Now, enter your desired column heading in the newly inserted cell and format it as the header column using the toolbar.

Step 3: In the toolbar, increase the font size and apply bold formatting to accentuate the text, signifying it as the column heading.

Google Sheets format heading


Step 4: Additionally, modify the cell color of the heading cell to visually distinguish it as the column header.

Google Sheets format cell


While this approach does not directly rename the column, it provides a clearer understanding of the spreadsheet contents for users.

How to Rename Columns Easily Using Column Actions

In this tutorial, we will learn how to change the name of a column in Google Sheets using the Column Actions feature.

Step 1: Open your spreadsheet and navigate to the column whose name you wish to change.

Step 2: On the right border of the column header, locate and click the arrow to reveal a dropdown menu.

Google Sheets Column header


Step 3: Scroll down the dropdown menu and select "View more column actions".

Google Sheets View more columns


Step 4: A flyout menu will appear, click on "Define named Ranges".

Google Sheets Define named ranges


Step 5: The Named Ranges tab will open on the right side of the screen. In the "Name" field, input the desired name for the column and click "Done".

Google Sheets add a named range


Step 6: The column name is now changed. Although the column header will still display the original letter, selecting the column will reveal the new name in the name box above the spreadsheet.

Google Sheets check column name


Step 7: To review or rename your columns in Google Sheets, navigate to the "Data" menu and choose "Named Ranges".

Google Sheets named ranges


Step 8: In the Named Ranges tab, you will find all your previous named ranges. Click the "Edit" icon to rename your named range as needed.

Google Sheets rename column

How to Rename Columns on Mobile Apps?

For Android Users:

If you are using Google Sheets on your Android device, you can easily rename column headers with the following steps:

Step 1: Open the spreadsheet and press and hold the header of the first Row header.

Google Sheets Android hold row header

Step 2: A pop-up menu will appear; tap on the "More" option or the three dots in the menu.

Google Sheets Android more options

Step 3: In the "More" options, select "Freeze".

Google Sheets Android freeze row

Step 4: You will notice a gray line below the first row, indicating that it is now frozen and will act as your column header.

Google Sheets Android freeze 1st row

Step 5: Click on the header, utilize your keyboard to enter the new column name, and then click the "Tick" icon at the corner of the keyboard.

Google Sheets Android rename column

Step 6: Your column header has now been successfully renamed. To finalize your edits, click on the "Tick" icon located at the top left of the screen.

Google Sheets Android finish editing

And there you have it – your column header is now successfully renamed using your Android device. This straightforward method allows for convenient management of column headers on the go.

For iPhone or iPad Users:

Similarly, on an iOS device, you can rename columns using the following steps:

Step 1: Begin by opening the spreadsheet and then double-click on the Row header.

Step 2: A pop-up menu will appear; tap on the arrow key to navigate right and reveal additional options.

Google Sheets iOS scroll for more options

Step 3: Continue scrolling until you find the "Freeze" option, then click on it to freeze the first row.

Google Sheets iOS freeze rows

Step 4: A gray line below the first row will indicate that it is now frozen and will serve as your column header.

Google Sheets iOS gray line indicating the freeze feature

Step 5: Click on the header, use your keyboard to input the new column name, and click the "Tick" icon at the corner of the screen.

Google Sheets iOS rename column

Step 6: Your column header has been successfully renamed. To complete your edits, tap on the "Tick" icon positioned at the top left of the screen.

Google Sheets iOS finish editing

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FAQs

Q1. How can I keep Column Headers visible when scrolling down?

Unfortunately, directly keeping column headers visible is impossible in Google Sheets, but there is a workaround. Here are the steps to attain an identical outcome:

Step 1: Enter the column header in the top cell of the column.

Step 2: Click on the "View" tab.

Step 3: Hover over the "Freeze" option. It will open a submenu with options for freezing rows or columns.

Step 4: Select the "1 Row" option from the submenu.

Google Sheets freeze columns

Google Sheets freeze columns

It freezes the top row, ensuring the column header remains visible as you scroll down the sheet. Although you can't directly keep column headers visible, this workaround achieves the same result.

Q2. How to separate first and last names in Excel?

Separating first and last names in Excel is an easy procedure, ere is guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Open your Spreadsheet on your system.

Step 2: Add an empty column next to your column of names.

Step 3: Click on the "Data" tab.

Step 4: Click on the top of the column containing names to select the whole column.

Step 5: Click on "Text to Columns".

Step 6: Choose "Delimited" and click "Next".

Step 7: Unselect "Tab" and choose "Space," then click "Next".

Step 8: The data preview section will automatically display an example of how your split text will look. Click "Finish" once you are done reviewing.

Step 9: Rename the new columns to "First Name" and "Last Name" as needed.

Q3. How can I turn names into Email Addresses in Excel?

You can turn names into email addresses in excel using the "CONCATENATE" function.

Suppose we have a list of individuals at XYZ Corporation, and we wish to structure their names with email addresses following the format firstname.lastname@xyzcorp.com.

Step 1: Click on the cell next to the name you want to transform.

Step 2: Use the "CONCATENATE" function with this formula: =CONCATENATE(A2,B2,"@xyzcorp.com"). Make sure to include the apostrophes and commas.

Google Sheet CONCATENATE Function

Google Sheet CONCATENATE Function

Step 3: To fill in the rest, use the Autofill Handle to transform all names in your list to emails.

 Google Sheet turn names to emails

Google Sheet turn names to emails

Streamline Data Management With WPS Office

While you learn how to rename columns in Google Sheets, remember that in Google Sheets, you will often be faced with the challenge of managing data in large sets. However, with WPS Office Spreadsheet, you can effortlessly create organized and visually appealing columns, thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive functionalities. The ease of navigation and a plethora of features make data management a seamless experience. Download WPS Office now to streamline your spreadsheet tasks and enhance your overall productivity.


15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.