Combining items on the spreadsheet

You can combine matching items into one line on the spreadsheet. Some estimators like to combine items because it makes it easier for them to review the spreadsheet during the revision process. When you combine items, you do not lose any of your estimate detail or accuracy.

To combine matching items into one line:

  • On the ribbon, from the Spreadsheet Actions group on the Home tab, click Combine Items.
  • In classic view, click View > Combine, or click An image of the Combine icon, from Classic view on the toolbar.

An asterisk marks rows that contain combined items.

To re-display individual items:

  • On the ribbon, from the Spreadsheet Actions group on the Home tab, click Combine Items.
  • In classic view, click View > Combine, or click An image of the Combine icon, from Classic view on the toolbar.

Tips:  

  • An asterisk (*) appears on the row header of combined items. This takes precedence over the paper clip indicating a note.
  • Asterisks (***) in a field mean that some of the combined items have different values. For example, if there are several locations for a combined line, you would see *** in the Location column.
  • No editing is permitted in combine mode, although you can open the Detail window or perform takeoff.
  • Combine mode affects only the spreadsheet sequence where it was activated.
  • One-time items do not combine.
  • Within a combined line, either all or none of the items have lump amounts.
  • Items included in separate Bid Grids do not combine. To preserve Bid Grids when you merge estimates, do not combine items or select ranges for the merge.
  • To preserve pending adjustments when you merge estimates, do not combine items.