Sorting

Excel automatically applies the correct sort logic based on the column's data type. The same A→Z button behaves differently depending on what the column contains:

Custom Sort

Opened via Data → Sort or Home → Sort & Filter → Custom Sort. Supports multiple levels, custom sort orders, sort by color or icon, and header detection confirmation.

Alphabetical order doesn't always reflect business logic. Sorting a Status column alphabetically puts "Paid" before "Pending" — but operationally you might want pending items at the top. Custom sort orders let you define exactly what sequence Excel should follow.

Sorting by a custom list (Windows):

1. Click any cell inside the table → Data → Sort to open the Sort dialog;
2. In the Sort By dropdown, choose the column (e.g. Status);
3. In the Order dropdown, choose Custom List;
4. Type your desired sequence one item per line (e.g. Pending → Paid → Cancelled) and click Add;
5. Click OK twice — Excel reorders rows following your defined sequence, not alphabetical order.

Sorting by a custom list (Mac):

1. First, create your custom list: go to Excel menu → Preferences → Custom Lists. Type your sequence one item per line (e.g. Pending → Paid → Cancelled) and click Add, then OK.
2. Click any cell inside the table → Data → Sort to open the Sort dialog; 3, In the Sort By dropdown, choose the column (e.g. Status).
3. In the Order dropdown, choose Custom List — your previously saved list will appear here;
4. Select your list and click OK twice — Excel reorders the rows following your defined sequence.