Others

How to Fix Excel Sort Only Using the First Sort Level

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is attempting to perform a multi-level sort on a worksheet, but the application is only applying the primary sort level and ignoring the subsequent levels.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Sorting a large dataset containing sensitive information using multiple criteria columns.
Observed behavior: Excel correctly sorts the first level (Column T) but ignores the requested secondary and tertiary sort levels (Columns R and P).

Before you start

Before troubleshooting, ensure there are no hidden columns, merged cells, or blank rows interrupting your dataset, as these can easily break advanced multi-level sorting features.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Sort Range and Reapply Multi-Level Settings

Ensure the entire dataset is properly selected and reconfigure the Sort dialog box to guarantee all levels are recognized.

Often, Excel will only apply sorting to the active column if the full range of the dataset is not explicitly selected before opening the Sort dialog.

Select the entire dataset

Click any cell within your data and press Ctrl+A to highlight all rows and columns.

Open the Sort Dialog

Navigate to the Data tab on the ribbon and click the Sort button.

Configure multiple levels

Ensure 'Sort by' is set to your primary column (Column T). Click the 'Add Level' button to set 'Then by' for your secondary (Column R) and tertiary (Column P) columns.

Apply the sort

Click OK to execute the multi-level sort across the selected range.

Check Data Headers: Make sure 'My data has headers' is checked in the Sort dialog if your top row contains column names, preventing them from being sorted into the data.

Solution 2

Create an Anonymized Copy for Troubleshooting

If the sorting issue persists on a very large file, stripping sensitive data and reducing the file size can help you share it safely for technical support.

Powerful Spreadsheet Tool

Perform Multi-Level Sorts Easily with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Office provides a highly intuitive interface for handling large datasets and performing complex multi-level sorts without errors. It easily manages heavy files and correctly applies complex criteria.

1. Open your file in WPS: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open your existing Excel workbook.
2. Select your dataset: Click anywhere inside your data and press Ctrl+A to select the entire data range.
3. Access Custom Sort: Navigate to the Data tab and click on the 'Custom Sort' button to open the sorting dialog.
4. Add sorting levels: Click the 'Add Level' button to define your primary, secondary, and tertiary columns, then click OK to apply the sort seamlessly.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls, .csv) formats.Advanced Custom Sort feature for easy and accurate multi-level sorting.Lightweight performance ensures smooth handling of large, data-heavy files.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Excel sort ignoring some columns?

This usually happens if the entire dataset isn't fully selected before sorting. If there are blank columns or rows, Excel might misidentify the active data range. Press Ctrl+A to select everything before sorting.

How do I add more than one level of sorting?

Go to the Data tab and click 'Sort' to open the Custom Sort dialog box. From there, click 'Add Level' to include secondary or tertiary columns to your sorting criteria.

Do merged cells affect sorting in spreadsheets?

Yes, merged cells disrupt the uniform grid of a spreadsheet, often preventing advanced sorting tools from working correctly. Unmerge your cells and use 'Center Across Selection' in the formatting settings instead.

How can I share an Excel file larger than 25MB for troubleshooting?

You can create a stripped-down copy by removing irrelevant tabs, anonymizing sensitive data, and uploading the reduced file to a cloud storage service like OneDrive or Google Drive to generate a shareable link.

Office Quick Solutions