Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To show the ruler in Excel, switch the worksheet to Page Layout view. On Windows, use View > Workbook Views > Page Layout. On Mac, choose View > Page Layout; if the rulers still do not appear, choose View > Ruler.
Show the ruler in Excel for Windows
- Open the worksheet and select the View tab.
- In Workbook Views, select Page Layout.
Excel displays horizontal and vertical rulers around the worksheet in Page Layout view. Microsoft documents these steps for Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, and Excel 2021. Microsoft Support: Use measurement rulers on a worksheet
Show the ruler in Excel for Mac
- Open the worksheet and select View in the menu bar.
- Choose Page Layout.
- If you don’t see the rulers on your sheet, open the View menu again and select Ruler.
Microsoft lists these instructions for Microsoft 365 for Mac, Excel 2024 for Mac, and Excel 2021 for Mac. Microsoft Support: Change the unit of measurement for cells
Change the ruler’s units
Excel lets you choose inches, centimeters, or millimeters for the ruler. The setting is in a different place on Windows and Mac:
#1 Best Overall
- Over 215 Microsoft Windows Excel Shortcuts
- Two-Sided Durable Laminiated Sheet
- Designed for Excel on a Windows Computer
| Platform | Path |
|---|---|
| Windows | File > Options > Advanced; under Display, choose a value in Ruler units. |
| Mac | Excel > Preferences > Authoring > View; select a unit under Ruler units. |
On Windows, Microsoft defines Ruler units as the units displayed on the ruler in Layout view. Microsoft Support: Advanced options
What the ruler measures—and when to use it
The horizontal and vertical rulers help you measure column width, row height, and page dimensions while working in Page Layout view. This view supports sizing rows and columns in physical units, including inches, centimeters, and millimeters.
Rank #2
- Instant Copilot. Unlock new possibilities with the dedicated Copilot key, which gives you instant access to experiences that can enhance your productivity¹.
- Enhance your experience With the new microphone mute key and snipping key
- Full keyboard experience. Features a full mechanical keyset, backlit keys, and a large trackpad for precise navigation and control. Optimal key spacing allows fast, fluid typing.
- Slim and compact Performs like a traditional, full-size keyboard.
- Clicks in place instantly Use in combination with the Surface Pro (11th Edition), Pro 9 and Pro 8* kickstand for a perfect laptop experience anywhere.
Normal view uses different measurements: row height is expressed in points, while column width uses a character-based unit. If you need physical measurements while adjusting a worksheet, switch to Page Layout view. Microsoft Support: Change the column width and row height
If the ruler is still missing
- Confirm the view. The worksheet ruler is available in Page Layout view; it is not a separate object that you insert.
- On Mac, check the Ruler command. With Page Layout selected, open View and make sure Ruler is selected.
- Do not confuse rulers with gridlines. Gridlines are the faint lines separating worksheet cells. Turning them on or off changes the cell display, not the measurement ruler.
The cited instructions cover Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, and Excel 2021 on Windows, and the corresponding Mac editions. They do not establish that the same controls are available in Excel for the web, mobile apps, or older releases.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 💻 ✔️ EVERY ESSENTIAL SHORTCUT - With the SYNERLOGIC Reference Keyboard Shortcut Sticker, you have the most important shortcuts conveniently placed right in front of you. Easily learn new shortcuts and always be able to quickly lookup commands without the need to “Google” it.
- 💻✔️ Work FASTER and SMARTER - Quick tips at your fingertips! This tool makes it easy to learn how to use your computer much faster and makes your workflow increase exponentially. It’s perfect for any age or skill level, students or seniors, at home, or in the office.
- 💻 ✔️ New adhesive – stronger hold. It may leave a light residue when removed, but this wipes off easily with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Fewer air bubbles – for the smoothest finish, don’t peel off the entire backing at once. Instead, fold back a small section, line it up, and press gradually as you peel more. The “peel-and-stick-all-at-once” method only works for thin decals, not for stickers like ours.
- 💻 ✔️ Compatible and fits any brand laptop or desktop running Windows 10 or 11 Operating System.
- 💻 ✔️ Original Design and Production by Synerlogic Electronics, San Diego, CA, Boca Raton, FL and Bay City, MI, United States 2020. All rights reserved, any commercial reproduction without permission is punishable by all applicable laws.
Rank #4
- Efficient Media Controls: The Wired Keyboard 600, designed by Microsoft, features a Media Center with four hot keys for easy control of play/pause, volume up, volume down, and mute functions.
- Quiet and Responsive Keys: Enjoy a comfortable typing experience with quiet, thin-profile keys that are both responsive and efficient.
- Convenient Shortcuts: Quickly access common tasks with dedicated shortcut keys, including a calculator hot key and a Windows start screen key.
- Spill-Resistant Design: Work confidently with a spill-resistant design that protects your keyboard from accidental messes.
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: No software needed—just connect the keyboard to your PC and start using it right away, with a full number pad for efficient data entry.
Rank #3
- EXCEL SHORTCUTS. ZERO SEARCHING. – Our bestselling reference mat puts an extensive collection of commonly used commands, formulas and helpful tricks directly beneath your fingertips so you can find answers fast, work smarter and stay in the flow.
- YOUR DESK. SMARTER. – Clearly organized sections for navigation, selection, formatting, data and functions make it easy to find the right Excel command exactly when you need it.
- LEARN, WORK & RESET – Built-in desk-exercise diagrams give you 10 quick ways to stretch, recharge and return to work feeling sharper.
- ROOM TO WORK & CREATE – The extended 31.5 x 11.8-inch Pixiecube desk mat fits a laptop or keyboard and mouse, while the soft 2 mm surface adds comfort and protects your desktop.
- BUILT FOR REAL-WORLD WORKDAYS – A rugged stitched edge helps prevent fraying, and the water-resistant, stain-resistant surface protects against scratches, spills and everyday wear—because smarter desks should work harder.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
