Move, Copy, and Reorder Sheets in LibreOffice Calc

Managing multiple sheets efficiently is a fundamental skill when working with complex datasets in LibreOffice Calc. This guide explains how to organize your workspace by reordering tabs within a single file, as well as moving and copying worksheets between multiple open workbooks using both the context menu dialog and simple drag-and-drop actions.

Reordering Sheets Within the Same Workbook

To change the order of sheets in your current workbook:

  1. Click and Hold: Click the sheet tab at the bottom of the window that you want to move.
  2. Drag: Drag the tab horizontally along the tab bar. A small downward arrow indicator will show where the sheet will be placed.
  3. Drop: Release the mouse button to place the sheet in its new position.

Moving or Copying Sheets Between Multiple Open Workbooks

To transfer or duplicate sheets across different files, ensure all involved workbooks are currently open in LibreOffice Calc.

  1. Open the Dialog: Right-click on the tab of the sheet you want to move or copy, then select Move or Copy Sheet… from the context menu.
  2. Select Action (Move vs. Copy):
    • To Copy: Check the Copy box at the bottom of the dialog window.
    • To Move: Leave the Copy box unchecked.
  3. Choose the Destination File: Under the Action section, open the To document drop-down menu and select the target open workbook (or select - new document - to create a fresh file).
  4. Choose Position: In the Insert before list, select the sheet before which your tab should be placed, or select - move to end position -.
  5. Rename (Optional): If copying, you can provide a new title in the New name field.
  6. Apply: Click OK to complete the operation.

Method 2: Using Drag-and-Drop Across Windows

  1. Arrange Windows: Position both Calc workbook windows side-by-side on your screen so the sheet tab bars of both documents are visible.
  2. Move: Click and hold the sheet tab from the source document, drag it into the sheet tab bar of the target workbook, and release.
  3. Copy: Hold down the Ctrl key while dragging and dropping the sheet tab into the target workbook. A small plus sign (+) will appear next to the cursor to indicate a copy operation.