This is different from "Fit to page"
Excel's "Fit to" option automatically calculates whatever scale is needed to squeeze content onto a set number of pages, which can shrink text to an awkward, unpredictable size. Typing an exact percentage instead gives you full control, which matters when you need consistent, readable text size across multiple printed reports.
The scale applies uniformly to both dimensions
Entering a percentage in this box scales the printed page proportionally β both width and height change by the same amount β so the layout keeps its original aspect ratio. If you need to change only how many columns fit per page without affecting row height, adjusting page margins or column widths directly is usually a better fit than the scale percentage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage should I use to make a printout roughly half its normal size?
A scale of around 50% will make the printed content appear roughly half its original dimensions, though remember scaling applies to width and height together, so the printed area shrinks more than half in total size.
Does changing the scale percentage affect what appears on screen while editing?
No. The scale percentage only affects how the worksheet is printed; it has no effect on the zoom level or appearance of the spreadsheet while you're working in it.