How do you sort data in an Excel column in ascending order?

To sort data in an Excel column in ascending order, selecting the column and choosing "Sort A to Z" from the Data tab is the most straightforward and efficient method. This action directly utilizes Excel's built-in sorting functionality, which reorganizes the data from the smallest value to the largest, whether dealing with numbers, text, or dates.

This method ensures that the entire column is sorted while maintaining the integrity of the rows. It is a reliable approach that allows for quick data organization, which is essential for data analysis, reporting, or presentation purposes. By navigating to the Data tab and selecting "Sort A to Z," users can visually confirm that the column is sorted correctly, as the command is explicitly labeled for ascending order.

Other options may lack the efficiency or clarity provided by using the Data tab. For instance, right-clicking the column header may not always present a direct option for sorting, while using the Excel Options menu might involve multiple steps that can complicate the sorting process. Similarly, the "Format" option is primarily for cell formatting and does not pertain to data sorting. Therefore, the option of using the Data tab is the most effective and widely understood method for sorting data in ascending order in Excel.