Simplify data with tables

By using tables appropriately, you can ensure that your data is easy to read and understand while maintaining a clean and organized page layout. In this guide, we will cover how to create, edit, format, and manage tables, ensuring that you get the most out of this versatile feature.

Creating a table

Creating a table in Confluence is straightforward and allows you to quickly organize and present your data. Follow these steps to add a table to your page:

1. From the toolbar or / command:

   • Select Table in the toolbar or type /table on the page.

   • You can also insert a table with keyboard shortcuts: shift + option + T for Mac or shift + alt + T for Windows.

   • A three-column, three-row table (including a header row) will appear on the page.

2. Customizing table size:

• You can also select the Table size menu in the toolbar to set the number of columns and rows according to your needs.

When you have large tables with many rows, the header row becomes “sticky” and doesn't scroll out of view when editing or viewing the page. This helps maintain context while working with extensive data sets. Note that this doesn't work if you've merged several rows to create a bigger header row.

Remember, while tables are excellent for presenting data. For more complex formatting, consider using macros or other layout options available in Confluence Cloud.

Editing a table's rows and columns

Editing the structure of a table is essential for organizing your data effectively. You can easily add, remove, merge, and split rows and columns to fit your needs. Here’s how:

Adding and removing rows and columns

Using the drag handle menu

• To add a column, select the column drag handle and select Add column left or Add column right from the menu.

• To add a row, select the row drag handle and select Add row above or Add row below from the menu.

• To remove a column, select the column drag handle and select Delete column from the menu.

• To remove a row, select the row drag handle and select Delete row from the menu.

Using the insert options

• To add a new column, hover over the column line at the top of the table until the insert column option appears, then select it to add.

• To add a new row, hover over the row line to the left of the table until the insert row option appears, then select it to add.

• Using Tab from the final cell in a table will add a new row to the bottom of the table.

Merging and splitting cells

Merge cells: Select the cells you want to combine, then select the Merge cells option from the cell menu.

Split cells: Select the merged cell you want to split, then select the Split cells option from the cell menu.

Reordering columns and rows

Drag and drop: You can reorder columns and rows by selecting, dragging, and dropping them into the desired position using the drag handles. This allows you to organize your table dynamically.

Table options for rows and columns

Fixed column widths: Determine if your table behaves as a fixed-width or variable-width table on different screen sizes.

Row and column header styles: For better readability and organization, make a row a header row or a column a header column with a grey-shaded background and bold text from Table options from the table toolbar.

Numbered column: Insert a numbered column from Table options from the table toolbar to automatically number each row, useful for data that requires indexing.

By editing your table’s rows and columns, you can ensure that your data is presented in a clear and structured manner, making it easier for users to read and understand.

Sorting table data

Sorting data within a table helps you organize information and make it easier to read. Here’s how you can sort your table data:

Sort columns

1. Select the column handle you want to sort.

2. Select the option to sort the data in ascending or descending order from the menu that appears.

Sorting your table data allows you to present information in a logical sequence, making it easier for users to understand and analyze the content.

Changing table layout and style

Changing the layout and style of your table helps enhance its readability and visual appeal. Here’s how you can customize your table:

Changing cell background color

1. Select the cells you want to format.

2. Select the background color option from the cell menu to apply the desired color.

Aligning tables

• Use the alignment button in the table toolbar to align tables to the left or center of the page.

Using guides for alignment

• Guides appear to help align your table width with other content on the page.

• Set your table width to one of the following three default widths: centered, wide, or full-width.

By changing the layout and style of your table, you can ensure that your data is presented in an organized and visually appealing manner, making it easier for users to read and understand.

Resizing tables and columns

Customizing the size of tables and columns allows your data to fit well within your page layout. Here’s how to resize tables and columns:

Resizing the whole table

1. Locate the resize handle on the right side of the table.

2. Drag the resize handle to adjust the table to the desired width.

Resizing individual columns

• Drag the column borders to adjust the width of individual columns.

• Use the Distribute columns button to make selected columns the same width.

Setting column widths to fixed

1. Open the Table options in the table toolbar.

2. Select the option to set column widths to fixed. This option is unchecked by default, allowing tables to scale dynamically.

Fixed column widths ensure your table layout remains consistent even on narrow screens. For those who prefer dynamic responsiveness, we’ve increased the maximum scaling flexibility.

By resizing your tables and columns, you can ensure your data presentation fits your page layout and enhances readability.

Deleting a table

Deleting a table is straightforward and helps you keep your page content organized. Here’s how you can remove a table from your page:

1. Select the table you want to delete.

2. Select Remove in the floating toolbar that appears below the table.

If you have any charts linked to your table, you will be given the option of deleting them.

By deleting unnecessary tables, you can maintain a clean and well-organized page, making it easier for users to find and focus on relevant information.

Visualizing table data

Transform your table data into dynamic charts to make it easier to review, monitor, and present. Visit Charts and connected data to learn how to create and customize charts from your table data.