Delete duplicate rows from a list in Excel

Solution:

A duplicate row (also called a record) in a list is one where all values in the row are an exact match of all the values in another row. To delete duplicate rows, you filter a list for unique rows, delete the original list, and then replace it with the filtered list. The original list must have column headers.

Because you are permanently deleting data, it's a good idea to copy the original list to another worksheet or workbook before using the following procedure.

1. Select all the rows, including the column headers, in the list you want to filter.

Tip

Click the top left cell of the range, and then drag to the bottom right cell.

2. On the Data menu, point to Filter, and then click Advanced Filter.
3. In the Advanced Filter dialog box, click Filter the list, in place.
4. Select the Unique records only check box, and then click OK.

The filtered list is displayed and the duplicate rows are hidden.

5. On the Edit menu, click Office Clipboard.

The Clipboard task pane is displayed.

6. Make sure the filtered list is still selected, and then click Copy .

The filtered list is highlighted with bounding outlines and the selection appears as an item at the top of the Clipboard.

7. On the Data menu, point to Filter, and then click Show All.

The original list is re-displayed.

8. Press the DELETE key.

The original list is deleted.

9. In the Clipboard, click on the filtered list item.

The filtered list appears in the same location as the original list.