lock in a title on column allowing sorting

[BILBO22]

I am trying to create titles for columns. I can do that by just creating them in the cells above the data.
The problem is that the titles sort into the data using the sorting feature. When I lock any cells and protect them, the sorting is locked out.
Can I use some sort of header over the columns that remains in place where I can still sort the data below, by clicking on the column and sorting?

John

[NBVC]

When you go to use the Sort Feature, make sure you select the option that says "My data range has header row" at the bottom of the window.

[BILBO22]

yes that does work like I wanted...
Thank you

Can I bring that sort button onto the menu bar? And can I set the "My data range has header row" switch on permanently so that we don't have to click so many buttons every time we sort?

[NBVC]

There are already icons for sorting... they are located in the Standard Toolbar and they look like an "A" above a "Z" with a downward arrow next to it (this is for sorting in ascending order) and then another similar icon with reverse "Z" over "A" and downward arrow (for sorting in descending order)....

I think the default is to assume there is a title row at top.

The default for the Data|Sort feature is usually to assume first row is headers...unless maybe there is an empty row between or something more unusual where Excel can't easily figure out the difference between the header and the actual data.