I just found out the hard way, lost several hours of work, and I guess I am somewhat stunned I haven't run into this earlier. Apparently sorting with hidden columns only sorts the unhidden columns. Why Excel chose to do this is quite beyond me, but let's say for arguments sake there is a valid reason. Excel should warn users when sorting with hidden columns that the hidden columns will not sort, thereby trashing your data.

Could someone please explain the rationale behind not sorting hidden columns? Thank you.

How do I notify Microsoft Excel team that this is a BAD idea? Is it addressed in 2010?