How to Use AutoFilter in Excel

Tap a step to see how to use AutoFilter in Excel.

  1. Select the data range

    Select the entire table range you want to filter, including the header row.

  2. Click "Data > Filter"

    In the "Sort & Filter" group on the "Data" tab, click "Filter."

  3. Click the drop-down arrow on a header

    Click the arrow that appears next to each column header to set your filtering condition.

  4. Choose the values or condition you want

    Check specific values, or specify detailed conditions using "Number Filters" or "Text Filters."

  5. How to clear a filter

    Click the "Filter" button again to remove every applied filter and display all the data again.

Find Exactly What You Need in a Large Table

When you want to pick out only the data that meets a certain condition from a huge table, AutoFilter lets you quickly narrow down and find exactly the rows you're looking for.

Try Conditional Formatting Too

Once you've filtered your data down to the relevant rows, applying conditional formatting can help highlight the values that matter most within that filtered view.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does applying a filter delete the original data?

No. A filter only temporarily hides rows that don't match your condition β€” it doesn't delete any data, and everything reappears once you clear the filter.

Can I copy just the filtered data separately?

Yes. While a filter is applied, selecting and copying only the visible cells lets you paste just those rows, excluding any hidden ones.