Notepad++ is an ideal tool for writers or developers as they need to write, edit & delete codes frequently. This utility also offers an easy way to edit multiple columns at once instead of editing each line individually.
So how can you use this feature to edit, cut or paste texts effortlessly?
Let’s dive into this article, as I will give you a detailed tutorial on column mode in Notepad++.
How to Use Column Mode Editing in Notepad++
To select text vertically by using column mode in Notepad++, press & hold the Alt button and use your mouse to select the texts you want. If you only want to use the keyboard, press & hold Alt+Shift and use the down(↓) and right(→) arrow keys to select your desired texts.
Too brief for you? Okay, below, I have thoroughly discussed the steps to utilize Notepad++ column mode paste or editing.
There are two easy ways to utilize this feature. One is by using the mouse and keyboard, another is by using the keyboard only. The second method is useful when you don’t have a mouse handy at the moment. It’s also better than using a crappy laptop touchpad.
Here’s how to enable column mode in Notepad++:
Via Mouse & Keyboard
- Press and hold the Alt button on your keyboard.
- Click and hold the right-click button of your computer’s mouse.
- Drag the cursor across the texts you want to select from the columns.
Via Keyboard Only
- Press and hold the Shift+Alt button on your keyboard.
- Use the down(↓) & right(→) arrow keys to select your desired texts.
Now you can type new text or copy/paste texts in the selected areas of the columns instead of writing those texts respectively for each line. You can also display multiple documents side by side or open excel documents in Notepad++ and do the same.
After selecting your desired texts, you can use the Column Editor tool by clicking on Edit > Column Editor… to quickly edit your document.
FAQ
Can you select a column in Notepad ++?
Yes, you can select any columns of your written document in Notepad++. Press and hold the Alt key on the keyboard and select the first cell with the cursor. Now drag it over to your desired cells, and you are done.
How do I make columns in Notepad ++?
To make columns in Notepad++, you need to use the Tab key. Write your text and press Tab. It will move the cursor to the right and create a column. Now type your next bit of text and press Tab again to create the next column.
How do you select vertically in Notepad++?
Press & hold Ctrl+Alt and use the down & right arrow keys to select text vertically in Notepad++.
Conclusion
Using the column mode for pasting or editing texts is super simple in Notepad++. It can increase your productivity and help you finish your work much faster.
Hopefully, this guide has provided all the information you were looking for. Feel free to ask any question on this topic in the comment section below.
Have a nice day!
