SORTING by COLUMN A (NAME) COL B has multiple rows

[mr_sock]

I have a big data file that is written in such a way that looks like this:

A---------------B
Name1---------Data1
---------------Data2
---------------Data3
Name2---------Data1
---------------Data2
---------------Data3


Everything is currently done manually to put Name in alphabetical order.
I want to use SORT function to SORT alphabetically by Column A instead of manually inserting and pasting the lines.
Column B data should correlate to Column A in same order when you SORT by Column A.

What is the best way to manage this spreadsheet? I'm open to any suggestions.

Thank you


<Attached sample spreadsheet>

[popipipo]

Try this with a help column

[alansidman]

In order to sort and maintain integrity, you cannot have any blank cells. Column A must contain values in each cell or it will not sort properly. If you wish to keep the current view as your presentation view, then insert a column to the left of Column A. For every cell, insert the company name that is applicable. Hide the new column A. Sort on Column A.

[mr_sock]

Thanks for the response.
Also, forgot to mention,
this is going to be ongoing and being shared with other people in network drive so something will be presentable for anybody else to see without any confusion will be important.

I guess adding the column for Sorting purposes is okay too and then I can hide it.

[newdoverman]

You have to fill in the blank cells in Column A before sorting:
1. Select (from your sample) A2:A14

2. Go to Find and Select, Go to Special and choose BLANKS

3. Copy

4. Hit the = sign then the UP arrow

5. Ctrl + Enter.

Now you can sort on Column A (Select all of the data so that you don't just sort column A)

[mr_sock]

Wow, thanks all. newdoverman, i didn't now there was that fast way of filling in the blanks. Thanks!

[newdoverman]

You're welcome. It is a handy trick to know.

[relabz]

Hi, I have problem with these data with their values in another column! I have ''word[1 ... 168]'' ... which will be sorted like ''word[1]'', ''word[10]'', ''word[101]'', but I want to plot the figure from ''word[1]'', ''word[2]'' to ''word[168]''! Their values are in column B. How can I sort them like ''word[1]'', ''word[2]'', ... to plot their values?

[alansidman]

@relabz
Unfortunately your post does not comply with Rule 2 of our Forum RULES. Do not post a question in the thread of another member -- start your own thread.

If you feel an existing thread is particularly relevant to your need, provide a link to the other thread in your new thread.

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