[Fixed!] Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel

Solution 1 – Applying Keyboard Shortcuts

This method only works in a single cell, so you need to repeat the steps for every cell.


Case 1.1 – Using Right Alt + Enter

The column C has values that don’t fit.

Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel

Steps:

  • To get into any cell, double-click on it or press F2.
  • Place your mouse cursor in the position where a line break needs to be added.
  • Press Alt + Enter.

Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel

  • Repeat for the other cells.

Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel

  • Select the range of the cells C5:C9. Go to the Home tab, select Format, and select AutoFit Row Height.

You’ll get a line break in an Excel cell as shown below.

Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel


Case 1.2 – Applying Windows + Alt + Enter

  • Click on cell C5 and press Windows + Alt + Enter.
  • Repeat for all cells.

Applying Windows+Alt+Enter

Here’s the result.

Applying Windows+Alt+Enter


Solution 2 – Utilizing the Wrap Text Command

We have a dataset that used the CHAR function to combine the strings of columns B, C, and D. We want to show a line break in column E.

Utilizing Wrap Text Command

Steps:

  • Select the range of the cells E5:E9.
  • Go to the Home tab and select the Wrap Text option.

Utilizing Wrap Text Command

  • You will get the following output.

  • Go to the Home tab, select Format, then select AutoFit Row Height.

Line Break in Cell Not Working in Excel

Here’s the result.


How to Insert a Line Break Properly in a Cell

Method 1 – Insert a Line Break Using a Keyboard Shortcut

We will use the Alt + Enter key from the keyboard.

How to insert a Line Break Properly in a Cell

Steps:

  • Copy the range of cells B5:B8 and paste them into the range of cells C5:C8.
  • To get into any cell, double-click on it or press F2.
  • Place your mouse cursor in the position where a line break needs to be added.
  • Press Alt + Enter.

  • Repeat for all cells.

How to insert a Line Break Properly in a Cell

Read More: How to Make Excel Go to Next Line Automatically


Method 2 – Using the CHAR Function to Insert a Line Break

Steps:

  • Use the following formula in the cell E5:

=B5&CHAR(10)&C5&CHAR(10)&D5

The CHAR function returns the specified code number from the character set off the computer. This formula will combine column B, C, and D and returns the result in column E.

  • Press Enter and drag the Fill handle icon.

Using CHAR Function to Insert a Line Break

  • You will get the following output.

Using CHAR Function to Insert a Line Break

  • Select the range of the cells E5:E9.
  • Go to the Home tab and select the Wrap Text command.

  • You will get the following output.

Using CHAR Function to Insert a Line Break

  • Go to the Home tab, select Format, then select AutoFit Row Height.

Here’s the result.

Using CHAR Function to Insert a Line Break


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Saquib Ahmad Shuvo
Saquib Ahmad Shuvo

Saquib Ahmad Bhuiyan, holding a BSc degree in Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, skillfully integrates engineering expertise with a passion for Excel. He provides solutions to complex issues as an Excel & VBA Content Developer for ExcelDemy Forum. He demonstrates an enthusiastic mindset and adeptness in managing critical situations with finesse, showcasing his commitment to excellence. Apart from creating Excel tutorials, he is interested in Data Analysis with MS Excel, Rhinoceros,... Read Full Bio

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