How do I create columns in Notion?

Creating columns in Notion is surprisingly straightforward once you understand the drag-and-drop mechanics. Unlike traditional word processors with dedicated column tools, Notion uses a flexible block-based system that allows you to position content side-by-side organically.

To create columns, start by adding the content blocks you want to arrange horizontally. This could be text blocks, images, databases, or any other Notion elements. Once you have your blocks ready, hover over the left edge of a block until you see the six-dot handle appear. Click and drag this handle to the right side of another block until you see a blue vertical line indicator. Release the mouse, and your blocks will snap into a column layout.

The beauty of Notion's column system lies in its flexibility. You can create anywhere from two to five columns on a single row, and each column can contain different types of content. For instance, you might have text in one column and an image gallery in another. The width of each column automatically adjusts based on the content and number of columns, though you can manually resize them by dragging the column dividers.

One significant advantage of Notion's approach is that columns are responsive and adapt well to different screen sizes. However, this flexibility comes with some limitations. Complex column layouts can become unwieldy on mobile devices, and managing deeply nested column structures can be challenging. Additionally, if you have extensive content in columns, it might become difficult to navigate and edit efficiently.

For best results, keep your column layouts simple and purposeful. Use columns to create visual comparisons, display complementary information, or organize related content that benefits from side-by-side viewing. Remember that you can always break columns back into single-width blocks by dragging them below or above the column structure.

To remove columns, simply drag one of the blocks out of the column formation, and the remaining content will automatically reflow. This makes it easy to experiment with different layouts without fear of losing your work. The key is to think of columns as temporary organizational tools rather than rigid structural elements, giving you the freedom to reorganize your content as your needs evolve.