5 Ways to Open Excel Sheets in Different Windows

Whether you're a data analyst, a financial planner, or a student compiling research data, working with Microsoft Excel can sometimes feel like navigating a labyrinthine spreadsheet. But what if you could see your data from multiple angles simultaneously? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 5 Ways to Open Excel Sheets in Different Windows to boost your productivity and workflow.

Understanding the Benefits

Before diving into the methods, let’s consider why opening Excel sheets in different windows can be beneficial:

• Enhanced Productivity: You can compare, edit, and analyze multiple datasets at the same time without switching back and forth.
• Data Integrity: Reducing the need to move data between different sheets helps prevent errors.
• Easier Collaboration: Team members can work on different parts of a project in real-time.

Method 1: Using ‘View Side by Side’ Feature

Here’s how you can quickly view two Excel files side by side:

1. Open both Excel files you want to compare or work on.
2. Go to the View tab on one of the files.
3. Click View Side by Side under the Window group.
4. Excel will automatically arrange the windows horizontally for comparison.

💡 Note: This method is excellent for quick comparisons but isn’t ideal for long-term multitasking.

Method 2: Opening Excel Files in New Window

If you need to work on multiple sheets independently, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on any Excel file icon or within the Excel window on an open sheet.
2. Select Open in New Window from the context menu.
3. Now, both windows will appear, each with its taskbar icon, allowing you to arrange them independently on your screen.

Method 3: Using Taskbar and Shortcuts

Windows OS provides some nifty shortcuts for multitasking with Excel:

• To open a new instance of Excel from the Start Menu or taskbar, hold Shift and click on the Excel icon.
• Or, if you’re already in Excel, use Alt+Tab to switch between open applications or Windows + Left/Right arrow to snap the windows into place.

Method 4: Manipulating Multiple Sheets within One Workbook

Sometimes, working within one workbook can be just as efficient:

1. Open your workbook with multiple sheets.
2. Go to View tab, then click New Window.
3. Excel will open another view of the same workbook, allowing you to compare different sheets side by side.

Method 5: Using Vlookup and Index-Match for Cross-Workbook References

If you need to reference data from multiple open workbooks, here’s a method for you:

1. In your main workbook, place the cursor in the cell where you want the data to appear.
2. Use formulas like =VLOOKUP([lookup value], [table array], [column index number], [range lookup]) or =INDEX([return array],MATCH([lookup value],[lookup array],[match type])) to cross-reference data.

Using these functions allows you to keep multiple workbooks open, each in its window, while pulling data seamlessly between them.

💡 Note: These functions require matching keys or indices for accuracy; otherwise, errors will occur.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the ability to open Excel sheets in different windows isn’t just about multitasking; it’s about gaining efficiency, reducing errors, and fostering better data analysis. Whether you’re comparing data points, conducting side-by-side analyses, or working collaboratively, these methods can revolutionize your Excel experience. With these techniques, you’re not just working smarter; you’re enhancing your capability to tell a story with data, piece by piece, sheet by sheet.

Can I keep multiple Excel windows open on different monitors?

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Absolutely, if your system supports multiple monitors, you can open Excel sheets in separate windows on each monitor for a more immersive and effective working experience.

What happens if I close one window in Excel?

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Closing one window will only close that specific view or instance of the workbook. Other open windows with the same workbook or different files will remain open.

How can I quickly switch between open Excel windows?

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Use Ctrl+Tab to cycle through open Excel windows or click on their respective taskbar icons to switch between them.