Fix: Unable to Delete or Add Sheet in Excel 2016 / 2013

Can't insert a new worksheet or delete an existing sheet? The option to add new sheet is greyed out? If the workbook structure is protected with a password, you're unable to add, delete, move, copy, rename, hide or unhide any sheets. Here are 2 ways to unprotect workbook structure in Excel 2016 / 2013.

Method 1: Unprotect Workbook Structure with Password

Excel allows users to protect the structure (the arrangement of sheets) of all sheets in a workbook. If you can remember the workbook structure password, you can easily remove the protection in Excel.

1. Open the Excel file (.XLSX, .XLS) in Office Excel. Click the File menu in the upper-left corner of the Excel window, and then select Info.

   

2. Click the Protect Workbook button and then select the Protect Workbook Structure option from the drop-down list.

   

3. If your workbook structure is protected, the Unprotect Workbook dialog box will pop up. Type in the correct password and click OK.

   

4. You can then insert, delete, copy, move, rename, hide or unhide the sheets without restrictions.

Method 2: Unprotect Workbook Structure without Password

If you've forgotten the password of protecting workbook structure, you can unprotect it with the Excel Password Recovery program. Here's how to remove workbook structure protection easily.

1. Download the Excel Password Recovery program by clicking this link, and then install it on your computer.

2. Start the Excel Password Recovery program. Click the ... button to select your protected Excel file, and choose Remove Worksheet & Workbook Password.

   

3. Once you clicking Next, the program will remove the workbook structure password instantly. Click the Go to folder button and you can open the unprotected Excel file and then add or delete sheets.

   

Using the Excel Password Recovery program you can also unprotect worksheet that prevents you from inserting or editing rows. It works with workbook created in Office Excel 2016, 2013, 2010 and 2007 files.