Excel like a finance pro.
← The libraryPractice · 2 questions →
Lookup function
TRANSPOSE
Flips a range so rows become columns and columns become rows.
CommonDifficulty 1200 · ProficientUsage rank #92 of 520
When to use it
Flips rows into columns and back. Spills in Microsoft 365; in older Excel select the output and press Ctrl+Shift+Enter.
The shape of it
- Syntax
=TRANSPOSE(array)
Worked examples
Row to column
=TRANSPOSE(A1:C1) → {Product;Price;Region}
A row becomes a column.
A matrix
=TRANSPOSE({1,2;3,4}) → {1,3;2,4}
Rows and columns swap.
In matrix math
=MMULT(TRANSPOSE(w),Cov) → 1 by n array
Matrix math often needs a transposed weight vector.
Worth knowing
- For a one-time flip, Paste Special, Transpose is simpler and not live.
- Keeps the link to the source, so edits flow through.
- TOROW and TOCOL reshape without a strict transpose.
Where it goes wrong
- #SPILL! when the output area is blocked.
- Old-style array formulas cannot be partially edited.
Related
Learn the moves here — or let Wauvel run them on your numbers.
Meet your AI CFO →One CFO-grade Excel tip a week
A short, practical email for finance operators — functions, shortcuts, and the moves that save an afternoon. Free, unsubscribe anytime.