How to move/copy sheets within workbook

wjSmith 0 Reputation points
2026-09-17T16:23:37.0433333+00:00

The move/copy function on the Excel spreadsheet will not transfer content. The workbook or page are NOT protected. How to rectify?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Other
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  1. DaveM121 933.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-17T16:56:42.5333333+00:00

    This problem is widely reported in Excel as being caused by the latest Office update, Microsoft have indicated they are working to resolve the problem and will release a patch as soon as possible to resolve the problem

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-17T16:23:52.8933333+00:00

    If the workbook and sheet are not protected, use the built-in sheet copy methods instead of copying the tab contents manually.

    For Excel desktop:

    1. Right-click the worksheet tab.
    2. Select Move or Copy.
    3. Select Create a copy.
    4. Under Before sheet, choose where the copied sheet should go.
    5. Select OK.

    A quicker same-workbook copy method is:

    • On Windows: hold CTRL and drag the worksheet tab to the new position.
    • On Mac: hold OPTION and drag the worksheet tab.

    If content still does not transfer:

    1. Try copying the sheet into a new workbook first:
      • Right-click the sheet tab.
      • Select Move or Copy.
      • In To book, select (new book).
      • Select Create a copy.
      • Select OK.
    2. Save the new workbook.

    If the issue is only in Excel for the web, moving or copying a sheet to another workbook is not available from the sheet tab menu. In that case:

    1. Select all data in the worksheet.
    2. Press Ctrl+C.
    3. Open the target workbook and add a blank worksheet with +.
    4. Select the first cell and press Ctrl+V.

    Notes:

    • Pasting sheet data manually can remove conditional formatting.
    • Calculations or charts based on the moved sheet can become inaccurate after moving or copying.
    • In Excel for the web, duplicating a sheet can fail if the sheet contains a chart, picture, or shape. Manual copy/paste is the workaround.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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