Learn how to Remove Duplicates in Excel quickly and clean up your data. This step-by-step guide shows how to find and delete duplicate values with simple examples
When working with large data in Excel, duplicates can be annoying — especially when you’re trying to count unique values, make clean reports, or prepare filtered lists.
But don’t worry. Excel has a built-in “Remove Duplicates” tool that can help you delete repeated values in just a few seconds — no formulas, no stress!
Let’s break it down in simple steps 👇
What Does “Remove Duplicates” Do?
The Remove Duplicates feature checks for repeated rows or values in your selected range and deletes the extra copies — keeping only the first instance.
It’s perfect for:
- Cleaning contact or email lists
- Removing repeated names, IDs, or values
- Preparing clean data for analysis
How to Use Remove Duplicates – Step-by-Step
Example 1: Remove Duplicate Names from a List
| Name |
|---|
| Riya Mehta |
| Aman Kumar |
| Riya Mehta |
| Sohan Lal |
| Aman Kumar |
Steps:
- Select the cells (A1:A5)
- Go to the Data tab
- Click on Remove Duplicates (or use shortcuts: Alt+A+M)
- In the pop-up, click OK (if only one column)
- Excel will remove the extra values and show a message like:
2 duplicate values found and removed; 3 unique values remain.
Done! Clean list in one click.
Example 2: Remove Duplicate Rows (Multiple Columns)
| Name | City |
|---|---|
| Riya Mehta | Delhi |
| Aman Kumar | Mumbai |
| Riya Mehta | Delhi |
| Aman Kumar | Pune |
Steps:
- Select both columns
- Click Data → Remove Duplicates
- In the pop-up, check both columns (Name and City)
- Click OK
This will only remove rows where both values are exactly the same.
Important Tips
Tip 1: Make a Copy First
Removing duplicates is permanent. Always keep a backup or work on a copy of your data.
Tip 2: Select Specific Columns
If you only want to check for duplicates in one column (like Name), uncheck other columns in the Remove Duplicates box.
Tip 3: Use Conditional Formatting to Highlight First
Go to Home → Conditional Formatting → Highlight Duplicate Values
This will visually show duplicates before you remove them.
👉 Common Questions
Does Excel keep the first or last value?
Excel keeps the first occurrence and deletes later duplicates.
Can I undo it?
Yes, but only if you press Ctrl + Z immediately after removing.
Does it check case sensitivity?
No — Riya and riya are treated as duplicates (unless you use Power Query or formulas).
Final Thoughts
Cleaning up your data is an important step in Excel work — especially when you’re sharing files, building reports, or analyzing results.
Remove Duplicates is a quick and powerful way to:
- Get rid of clutter
- Ensure accuracy
- Save time (and frustration!)
Once you start using it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
What’s Next?
In the next post, we’ll learn about the Sorting & Filtering Data in Excel.