Sort a spreadsheet without breaking the rows

In a table, the cells across a row usually describe one record. Sorting only part of that row can detach a name from its corresponding details.

1. Make a copy of a small table for practice. Identify the header row and note the total record count and the values in one easily recognized record.
2. Select the complete table or use its built-in sorting control. Confirm that the operation includes every related column and treats the header as a header.
3. Choose the column to sort by and the desired direction. If a warning asks whether to expand the selection, review the range before proceeding.
4. Check the recognizable record after sorting. Its name, identifier and other values should still belong together; also compare the record count with your note.

Undo immediately if values have become mismatched. Repeat on the practice copy until you can explain which range the sort changes.