How to Add Workbook Tabs Above the Worksheet in Excel
Question details
The user wants to display workbook or worksheet tabs at the top of the Excel window instead of the bottom.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Organizing and navigating between multiple workbooks or worksheets more efficiently within a single window.
- Observed behavior
- Excel only displays standard sheet tabs at the bottom and lacks a built-in option to move them above the workspace.
Since Microsoft Excel does not have a native feature to place tabs above the worksheet, you will need to download and install a reliable third-party add-in to achieve this layout.
Install Office Tab or a Similar Third-Party Add-in
The most effective way to get a tabbed browsing interface at the top of your Excel workspace is by installing a dedicated add-in like Office Tab.
Microsoft Excel opens separate windows for each workbook by default and keeps sheet tabs at the bottom. To replicate a web-browser-like tabbed experience above your workspace, a third-party extension is required.
Search for and download a reputable Excel add-in that supports top-level tabbing, such as 'Office Tab'.
Close all instances of Microsoft Excel, run the downloaded installer, and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Open Excel. You should now see a new add-in ribbon or settings panel where you can customize the tab position, setting it to display above your worksheet.
Enjoy Built-in Top Tabs with WPS Office
Unlike Microsoft Excel, WPS Spreadsheet natively supports a tabbed interface. All your open workbooks automatically appear as convenient tabs above your workspace, just like a web browser, without needing any third-party add-ins.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office suite.
- 2. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch the application and open your existing Excel files.
- 3. Enjoy native tabs: Notice that multiple files automatically open as tabs at the top of the window, allowing seamless navigation without extra configuration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move the default bottom sheet tabs to the top in Excel?
No, Microsoft Excel does not provide a built-in setting to move the standard worksheet tabs from the bottom to the top of the screen.
Are third-party Excel add-ins safe to use?
Most well-known add-ins like Office Tab are safe, but you should always download them from their official websites and ensure your antivirus software is active.
Does WPS Office support opening multiple spreadsheets in one window?
Yes, WPS Office uses a multi-tab interface by default, allowing you to open and manage multiple spreadsheets, documents, and presentations in a single window with tabs at the top.
