How to Insert New Rows and Columns in C#

What Is the Syntax for Adding a Single Row?

:path=/static-assets/excel/content-code-examples/how-to/add-rows-columns-rows.cs

using IronXL;

// Load existing spreadsheet
WorkBook workBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx");
WorkSheet workSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet;

// Add a row before row 2
workSheet.InsertRow(1);

// Insert multiple rows after row 3
workSheet.InsertRows(3, 3);

workBook.SaveAs("addRow.xlsx");

Imports IronXL

' Load existing spreadsheet
Private workBook As WorkBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx")
Private workSheet As WorkSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet

' Add a row before row 2
workSheet.InsertRow(1)

' Insert multiple rows after row 3
workSheet.InsertRows(3, 3)

workBook.SaveAs("addRow.xlsx")

The InsertRow method accepts a single parameter indicating the zero-based index where the new row should be inserted. All existing rows at and below that position shift down automatically. For more complex scenarios involving working with data, you can combine row insertion with formulas and calculations.

How Do Multiple Row Insertions Work?

When using InsertRows, specify both the starting index and the number of rows to insert. This method proves invaluable when preparing data templates or expanding datasets dynamically. The method maintains all existing formatting and formulas, adjusting cell references automatically.

What Are Common Pitfalls When Adding Rows?

Several challenges can arise when inserting rows programmatically:

1. Index Confusion: IronXL uses zero-based indexing, so row 1 in Excel corresponds to index 0 in code
2. Table Boundaries: Inserting rows within named tables requires special consideration - see our guide on named tables
3. Performance Impact: When inserting many rows, consider batch operations to improve performance as detailed in our performance milestones
4. Formula Updates: Cell references in formulas update automatically, but absolute references remain fixed

Why Does the Index Position Matter?

The index position determines where your new row appears and how existing data shifts. Using incorrect indices can overwrite data or create gaps in your spreadsheet. For complex data manipulation scenarios, consider reviewing our guide on selecting ranges to better understand positioning.

What Is the Basic Removal Syntax?

:path=/static-assets/excel/content-code-examples/how-to/add-rows-columns-remove-row.cs

using IronXL;

// Load existing spreadsheet
WorkBook workBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx");
WorkSheet workSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet;

// Remove row 5
workSheet.GetRow(4).RemoveRow();

workBook.SaveAs("removeRow.xlsx");

Imports IronXL

' Load existing spreadsheet
Private workBook As WorkBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx")
Private workSheet As WorkSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet

' Remove row 5
workSheet.GetRow(4).RemoveRow()

workBook.SaveAs("removeRow.xlsx")

When Should I Remove Rows Programmatically?

Row removal proves essential in several scenarios:

• Data Cleanup: Remove empty or invalid rows from imported datasets
• Dynamic Filtering: Delete rows that don't meet specific criteria
• Template Preparation: Clear sample data before generating reports
• Performance Optimization: Reduce file size by removing unnecessary rows

For more advanced data manipulation, explore our tutorial on editing Excel files which covers comprehensive editing techniques.

What Happens to Data Below Removed Rows?

When you remove a row, all rows below it automatically shift up to fill the gap. This maintains data continuity without manual intervention. Formulas referencing the removed row may return errors, so consider updating dependent calculations. For handling formula updates, see our guide on editing formulas.

What Code Adds Single vs Multiple Columns?

:path=/static-assets/excel/content-code-examples/how-to/add-rows-columns-columns.cs

using IronXL;

// Load existing spreadsheet
WorkBook workBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx");
WorkSheet workSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet;

// Add a column before column A
workSheet.InsertColumn(0);

// Insert multiple columns after column B
workSheet.InsertColumns(2, 2);

workBook.SaveAs("addColumn.xlsx");

Imports IronXL

' Load existing spreadsheet
Private workBook As WorkBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx")
Private workSheet As WorkSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet

' Add a column before column A
workSheet.InsertColumn(0)

' Insert multiple columns after column B
workSheet.InsertColumns(2, 2)

workBook.SaveAs("addColumn.xlsx")

How Does Column Indexing Work?

Column indexing follows the same zero-based pattern as rows:

• Column A = index 0
• Column B = index 1
• Column C = index 2

This consistency simplifies working with both dimensions of your spreadsheet. When combined with cell data formatting, you can create properly structured data tables programmatically.

What Are the Limitations of Column Operations?

Current limitations include:

• No Direct Column Removal: Unlike rows, columns cannot be directly removed (workaround: copy needed data to new sheet)
• Table Constraints: Columns within named tables require special handling
• Maximum Column Limit: Excel supports up to 16,384 columns (XFD)
• Performance Considerations: Large column insertions may impact file size significantly

For working around these limitations, our troubleshooting guide on file size limits provides optimization strategies.