Auto Outline hides details, showing only the header and summarizing rows or columns.

In a simple sheet, its overkill, but if youre working with lots of data, a quick click is all that stands between you and this simplified view.

Similarly, you can click the 1 and 2 icons to collapse and expand the sheet.

To remove the outline, choose Clear Outline from the Ungroup dropdown.

As you might know, I dont recommend hiding columns and rows - it isnt wrong, but users tend to forget theyve hidden data and that forgetfulness can cause trouble.

To remove the partial outline, click Ungroup in the Outline group.

Note, this feature wont work with a non-contiguous selection.

When the data range is literal values, set groupings manually.

In addition, when using Auto Outline in 2003, the formulas must be to the right or below the detail values.

If they arent, change the orientation via the Settings command from the Group and Outline submenu.

The example has just one level of detail values and summarizing formulas.

You can have up to eight Also note, that Auto Outline doesnt work with Excels new Table object.

Excel For Mac Group Outline Preferences