How to Add the Filename to the Header in Excel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding the filename to the header in Excel is a handy trick to have up your sleeve, especially when you’re working with multiple files at once. It’s a simple process that involves a few clicks and some typing. Trust me, once you learn how to do it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Add the Filename to the Header in Excel

Before we jump into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to add the filename to the header in Excel. Maybe you need to print out your spreadsheet and want to make sure the filename is clearly displayed. Or perhaps you’re sharing the file with colleagues and want to make it easy for them to see which file they’re looking at. Whatever the reason, here’s how you do it:

Step 1: Open the Page Layout View

Click on the ‘View’ tab and then select ‘Page Layout.’

This will switch your view from the normal editing mode to the page layout mode, which shows how your spreadsheet will look when printed.

Step 2: Click on the Header

Double-click on the header area at the top of your spreadsheet.

Your cursor will now blink in the header area, indicating that you can start typing or inserting elements.

Step 3: Insert the Filename

Click on the ‘Design’ tab under ‘Header & Footer Tools,’ then click on ‘Header’ and select ‘Filename’ from the dropdown menu.

This will automatically insert the filename into the header. You can also add additional text or formatting if you like.

Once you’ve completed these steps, the filename will appear in the header on every page of your Excel spreadsheet. It’s that easy!

Tips for Adding the Filename to the Header in Excel

• Make sure you’re in ‘Page Layout’ view before trying to edit the header.
• If you want the filename to appear on every page, insert it into the header. If you only want it on the first page, insert it into the ‘First Page Header.’
• You can also add the path of the file’s location by selecting ‘File Path’ from the ‘Header’ dropdown menu.
• If you want to remove the filename from the header, you can simply delete it while in the header edit mode.
• Remember to save your spreadsheet after adding the filename to the header to ensure it stays there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add the filename to the footer instead of the header?

Yes, you can follow the same steps but double-click on the footer area to insert the filename there.

Will the filename update automatically if I save the file with a new name?

Yes, Excel will update the filename in the header or footer automatically if you save the file under a new name.

Can I format the filename in the header?

Absolutely! You can change the font, size, color, and more just like you would with any other text in Excel.

Is it possible to add other document properties to the header or footer?

Yes, aside from the filename, you can add the file path, current date, time, and more using the ‘Header & Footer Elements’ section in the ‘Design’ tab.

Does this method work for all versions of Excel?

While the exact steps may vary slightly, you can add the filename to the header in most versions of Excel, including Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2019, Excel 2016, and Excel 2013.

Summary

1. Open the Page Layout View.
2. Click on the Header.
3. Insert the Filename.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! Adding the filename to the header in Excel is a breeze once you know what you’re doing. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who likes to keep their files organized, this skill is a game-changer. No more confusion about which file you’re looking at or wasting time typing out filenames for printouts – Excel’s got you covered. And remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to customizing your Excel experience. There are countless tricks and tips out there to make your spreadsheets work harder for you. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch your Excel game level up!