How to Add Cells in Google Sheets

Last Updated: December 3, 2020

Using the desktop version of Google Sheets, you can insert a single cell; however, in the mobile app, you only have the ability to insert a row or column. This wikiHow will show you how to add cells to Google Sheets using your desktop browser as well as give you pointers on adding rows and columns if you're using the mobile app.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:
Adding a Cell

1
Open your document in Google Sheets. You can go to https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/ and log in then double-click to open the Google Sheet you want to add cells to. You can also create a new document by clicking the multicolored plus icon.
- You can also use the mobile app on an Android, iPhone, or iPad.
2
Navigate to where you want to add the cell. Using your fingers or by scrolling, you need to find the location where you want to insert a(n) additional cell(s).
3
Right-click the cell next to where you want to add cell(s) (desktop only). You'll get a drop-down menu.
- If you're using the mobile app, tap the plus icon at the top of your screen and an Insert menu will appear at the bottom of your screen.
4
Hover your cursor over Insert cells and select Shift right or Shift down. This will add a blank cell accordingly.^{[1]
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- If you're using the mobile app, tap one of the Insert options for inserting a row or column.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:
Adding Multiple Cells, Rows, or Columns

1
Open your document in Google Sheets. You can go to https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/ and log in then double-click to open the Google Sheet you want to add cells to. You can also create a new document by clicking the multicolored plus icon.
2
Highlight the number of cells, rows, or columns you want to add. If you want to add 7 cells in a row, highlight 7 cells that are touching each other in a row. You can do this by clicking and dragging over the spreadsheet.
- You can also hold the Shift key between the first and second selection instead of dragging your cursor.
3
Right-click the highlighted area. A menu will pop up at your cursor.
4
Click Insert [NUMBER] cells/rows/columns. The language will vary depending on how many cells you highlighted as well as if they are in row or columns.