Here are two ways to sort data in Excel by a single column (ascending or descending):

Method 1: Using Sort & Filter Buttons

1. Select your data range: Click on any cell within the data set you want to sort. This will automatically highlight the entire range.
2. Go to the Data tab: Locate the "Data" tab on the Excel ribbon.
3. Sort options: In the "Sort & Filter" group, you'll see two options:
- Sort A to Z (ascending order)
- Sort Z to A (descending order)
4. Choose your sort order: Click the appropriate button based on whether you want to sort in ascending (A to Z) or descending (Z to A) order.

Method 2: Using the Sort Dialog Box

1. Select your data range: Similar to method 1, highlight the data you want to sort.
2. Go to the Data tab: Navigate to the "Data" tab on the ribbon.
3. Sort option: In the "Sort & Filter" group, click the "Sort" button (looks like a funnel with an arrow).
4. Sort by: In the "Sort by" dropdown menu, choose the column you want to sort by.
5. Sort Order: Under "Order," select "A to Z" for ascending or "Z to A" for descending order.
6. Sort: Click "OK" to confirm and sort your data.

Both methods achieve the same result of sorting your data by a single column. Choose the method that best suits your workflow.