To merge two columns in Excel, the most common and effective way is to use a formula that combines the contents of the two columns into a new column. There are a few methods to do this:

Using CONCATENATE or CONCAT function

1. Insert a new helper column next to the two columns you want to merge.
2. In the first cell of the helper column, enter the formula:
   • For CONCATENATE: =CONCATENATE(A1, " ", B1)
   • For CONCAT (newer Excel versions): =CONCAT(A1, " ", B1)
3. This formula joins the values in the two cells with a space between them.
4. Drag the fill handle down to apply the formula to all rows.
5. Optionally, copy the helper column and paste as values to keep the merged text without formula dependencies.

Using Ampersand (&) Operator

1. Insert a helper column.
2. In the first cell of the helper column, enter:
   • =A1 & " " & B1
3. Drag down to copy to other rows.
4. Copy and paste as values if needed.

Notes

• The space " " between the cells can be changed to any delimiter such as comma or dash.
• Excel's built-in "Merge Cells" option merges cells visually but only keeps the upper-left cell's content, so formulas are preferred to merge data without loss.

This method helps organize and preserve data clearly in one combined column without losing any original data from the separate columns.