Multi-Key Column Sort
Sort delimited text rows by multiple columns with ascending/descending control per key. Like sorting a spreadsheet by multiple columns.
About This Free Online Multi-Key Column Sort
Our free online Multi-Key Column Sort tool sorts delimited text rows by up to 3 columns, like sorting a spreadsheet by multiple columns. Set the primary sort key (e.g., column 1), secondary key (e.g., column 3), and tertiary key (e.g., column 5), each with independent ascending or descending order. Supports comma, tab, pipe, semicolon, and custom delimiters. Optional header row is kept at the top. Essential for data analysis, log processing, and spreadsheet data cleanup. All processing is done in your browser.
Features of Our Multi-Key Column Sort
- Sort by up to 3 columns
- Independent ascending/descending per column
- Comma, tab, pipe, semicolon, and custom delimiters
- Header row preservation option
- Numeric and text sorting modes
- Real-time preview
- 100% private — browser-only processing
How to Use the Multi-Key Column Sort
Using this tool is simple and requires no signup or registration. Follow these steps:
- Paste your delimited text into the input area.
- Select the delimiter.
- Set primary, secondary, and tertiary sort columns and their sort direction.
- Copy the sorted output.
Frequently Asked Questions About Multi-Key Column Sort
How do I specify sort columns?
Columns are 1-indexed. Enter the column number for primary, secondary, and tertiary sort keys. Only the primary key is required.
Can I mix ascending and descending?
Yes. Each sort key has its own toggle for ascending or descending order.
Does it keep the header row at the top?
Yes. If the header row option is checked, row 1 stays at the top and only data rows are sorted.
Why Choose Text Toolbox?
Text Toolbox provides free, private, and instant online text tools. Unlike other text utility websites that require signup accounts or send your data to servers, all our tools process your text entirely in your browser. This means your content never leaves your device — we cannot see it, store it, or share it. Our tools are fast, lightweight, and work on any device with a modern web browser.