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How to remove table formatting in Excel – 2 simple methods

Here are two methods to remove formatting from Excel's tables.

Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock

Last Updated on July 15, 2024
The Microsoft Excel logo on a blue background.
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If you want to know how to remove table formatting in Excel, you’ve come to the right place.

Excel lets you insert tables, thanks to which you can organize your data in a much better way. However, whenever you insert a table, Excel automatically formats it. In other words, it comes with a pre-selected design and theme. While this is somewhat useful, some people prefer a clear, regular table. For this, you need to remove table formatting.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to remove table formatting in Excel. There are two different methods you can use for the task, and both of them are pretty straightforward.

1

How to remove table formatting in Excel from Design tab

First, let’s look at how you can remove table formatting in Excel from the Designs tab.

 

Step

1

Select a cell

First, select any cell within the formatted table.

Learn how to create a spreadsheet in Excel with the option to remove tables.

Step

2

Go to Design

Now, go to the Design tab, and click on the Quick Styles button to view more table styles.

How to create and remove a table in Excel.

Step

3

Select Clear

Finally, to remove table formatting, click on Clear. Your table will now appear as a regular one.

An example of a calendar template in PowerPoint, showcasing excel integration and table removal functionality.

2

How to remove table formatting in Excel through Editing

Another way to remove table formatting in Excel is through the Editing section.

Step

1

Select the entire table

To remove the formatting entirely, select the entire table by dragging the mouse and holding over every cell.

How to create and remove a table in Excel.

Step

2

Go to Editing

Now, go to the Home tab, find the Editing section, and click on the Clear icon. This will be a small eraser.

Step

3

Clear the formatting

From the list of options that will appear on the screen, click on Clear Formats. This will remove the formatting from your table in Excel.

        Description: How to create and remove a table in Excel.

Final thoughts

This was everything you needed to know about how to remove table formatting in Excel. Formatting a table is an easy process, and removing table formatting is just as easy. Using the tips above you will have much more control over your Excel tables without the confusion. We shared two methods in our guide, and both of them can help remove formatting quickly.

Learn more about Excel through these guides:

Kevin is the Editor of PC Guide. He has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs and all things consumer tech - and more than 15 years experience in tech journalism.