If you’re working with large data tables, knowing how to apply alternate row color in Excel is essential for improving readability and organization. This formatting technique—also known as banded rows or zebra striping—makes it much easier to scan across rows without losing track of the data. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu (LibreOffice Calc), there are quick and effective ways to apply this style using built-in tools and keyboard shortcuts.
🧠 Why Use Alternate Row Colors in Excel?
Alternate row shading helps:
- Increase visual clarity
- Reduce reading errors in large datasets
- Highlight important rows and patterns
- Add professional appeal to reports and exports
🪟 How to Add Alternate Row Color in Excel on Windows
Method 1: Using Format as Table
- Select the data range
- Go to Home > Format as Table
- Choose a style with alternate row colors
- Confirm that your table has headers if needed
✅ This method automatically enables filtering and sorting features.
Method 2: Conditional Formatting (Manual Control)
- Select your data range
- Click Home > Conditional Formatting > New Rule
- Choose Use a formula to determine which cells to format
- Enter this formula:
=ISEVEN(ROW()) - Click Format > Fill and choose a background color
- Click OK to apply
Keyboard Shortcut:
- Open Conditional Formatting:
Alt + H + L - Navigate through New Rule:
N - Apply:
Enter
🍏 How to Apply Alternate Row Colors in Excel for macOS
Using Format as Table:
- Highlight your dataset
- Click Home > Format as Table
- Choose a striped style (e.g., light or medium styles)
Using Conditional Formatting:
- Select your table
- Go to Home > Conditional Formatting > New Rule
- Choose: Classic → Use a formula to determine
- Enter:
=ISEVEN(ROW()) - Choose fill color and click OK
Keyboard Tip: Mac doesn’t support complex Excel shortcuts like Windows, so it’s best to use the ribbon or menu bar.
🐧 Alternate Row Shading in Ubuntu (LibreOffice Calc)
Method: Conditional Formatting
- Select the cell range
- Go to Format > Conditional > Condition
- Under Condition 1:
- Select “Formula is”
- Type:
MOD(ROW(),2)=0
- Click New Style, choose your background color
- Name and apply the style
🎨 LibreOffice allows full control over style presets and custom background colors.
Keyboard Shortcut:
- Open Conditional Formatting:
Ctrl + 1, then navigate using arrow keys
🎨 Customize Your Table Further
- Use alternating column colors with
ISEVEN(COLUMN()) - Add borders for table framing
- Change font color on shaded rows for contrast
🔍 Quick Comparison Table: Alternate Row Formatting Methods
| Platform | Method | Tool Used | Formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Format as Table | Home Tab | Built-in style |
| Windows | Conditional Formatting | Alt + H + L | =ISEVEN(ROW()) |
| macOS | Format as Table | Ribbon > Format | Built-in style |
| macOS | Conditional Formatting | Menu-driven | =ISEVEN(ROW()) |
| Ubuntu | Conditional Formatting | Format > Conditional | MOD(ROW(),2)=0 |
❓ FAQ – Excel Alternate Row Color
Can I alternate column colors instead?
Yes. Use =ISEVEN(COLUMN()) in conditional formatting.
Will the shading stay if I sort data?
Yes, if you’re using Format as Table. For conditional formatting, it’s based on row numbers, so rows may lose their shade after sorting.
Can I change the color intensity?
Absolutely! Just choose a different fill color in the Format settings.
Is Format as Table better than Conditional Formatting?
For quick setup and automatic styling, Format as Table is better. For custom layouts, use Conditional Formatting.
✅ Conclusion
Mastering how to apply alternate row color in Excel can dramatically improve your spreadsheet’s usability and visual appeal. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, you now have the tools to apply row banding using Format as Table or Conditional Formatting. It’s simple, effective, and adds a professional touch to your data.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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