Formatting Issues

How to Insert a Vertical Line Between Columns in Excel

Nimra Malik Oct 14, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to add a vertical separator line between specific columns in a spreadsheet to visually divide the data.

How to Insert a Vertical Line Between Columns in Excel

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Organizing spreadsheet data and improving overall readability by visually separating adjacent columns.
Observed behavior: A visible vertical line needs to be displayed between two columns, such as between Column A and Column B.

Before you start

Ensure you have selected the correct worksheet and know exactly which columns you want to separate before applying the border formatting.

Solution 1Recommended

Apply a Right Border to the Column

The most straightforward and native way to create a vertical line between two columns is by adding a right border to the first column.

Applying cell borders is the standard method for drawing lines in spreadsheets. It perfectly aligns with your cells and automatically adjusts if you resize the column widths.

Select the target column

Click on the column header (for example, Column A) or select the specific vertical range of cells where you want the line to appear.

Navigate to the Home tab

Look at the top ribbon of your Excel window and click on the 'Home' tab.

Open the Borders menu

Locate the 'Font' group on the ribbon and click the small dropdown arrow right next to the 'Borders' icon.

Apply Right Border

Choose 'Right Border' from the dropdown list. This will instantly add a distinct vertical line between your selected column and the adjacent column on its right.

Alternative Selection: You can achieve the exact same visual result by selecting the second column (e.g., Column B) and applying a 'Left Border' instead.

Solution 2

Draw a Vertical Line Using Shapes

If you need a free-floating line that can stretch across merged cells without altering the native cell borders, drawing a shape is the best alternative.

Easy Spreadsheet Formatting

Format Your Spreadsheets Effortlessly in WPS Office

WPS Office provides a highly intuitive and powerful interface for editing spreadsheets. You can quickly add vertical lines, customize borders, and organize your data to look professional with just a few clicks.

1. Open the file: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your data document.
2. Select the column: Highlight the column or cell range where the vertical line is needed.
3. Find the Border tool: Navigate to the Home tab and locate the Borders icon in the toolbar.
4. Apply the border: Click the dropdown and select 'Right Border' to instantly insert your vertical line.

Easily insert vertical lines and customize detailed cell borders.Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx and .xls) file formats.Lightweight software with a familiar, user-friendly tabbed interface.Completely free to download and use for your daily spreadsheet tasks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change the color or thickness of the vertical line between columns?

To customize the line, click the 'Borders' dropdown menu in the Home tab and select 'Line Color' or 'Line Style' to choose your preferences. After setting the style, your cursor will turn into a pencil tool—simply click the vertical border between your columns to apply the new style.

Will the vertical lines I inserted print with my spreadsheet?

Yes, lines added using either the cell borders feature or the insert shapes tool will print by default, provided they are located within your defined print area.

How can I remove a vertical line that I previously added?

Select the cells adjacent to the line, click the 'Borders' dropdown menu in the Home tab, and select 'No Border' to completely remove the border formatting from that specific area.

Document & File Issues