How can I conditionally format several columns of data the same way?

[Daniel65]

I know how to conditionally format a single column. Select it, go to Conditional Formatting -> New Rule (I am using the gradient format based on cell values). I want the gradient to go from the lowest value to the highest in the column. So far, so good. But what if I have 30 columns that I want to do this to, without setting up 30 separate rules? If I select all the columns, then the rule operates over all 30 columns rather than being used once per column. I thought copy and paste would do it, but if I copy a conditionally formatted column and paste it somewhere else, the one rule applies to both columns, rather than duplicating and working separately in the two columns. Is there any way I can get around manually setting up the same rule over and over?

5	40%
2	40%
8	50%
4	80%
7	70%
11	10%
1	90%

In this example, I cannot have the same rule operating in both columns - say the gradient went from red (low) to blue (high) - the first column would be mainly correct, but the second would be all red since its magnitude of fluctuation is much smaller than the first column. Is there a way for me to specify that an instance of the rule works for each column separately?

[ChemistB]

I was able to copy and Paste Special > Formatting and it does not look like it is incorporating all columns. Look at attachment.

[Daniel65]

Ok, that seems to work - just one more thing. Is it possible to do that without reentering the data? If I have the columns already there, then copying and pasting onto it must always remove the data, right? In other words, is it possible to paste formatting without touching the data?

[ChemistB]

Yes, it is possible. What you need to do is Copy your properly formatted column and then "Paste Special" and select "Formats" That will paste only the formatting. Of course, that's all formatting so you'll probably need to do some reformatting (i.e. percents or dates).
Good luck.