Microsoft Excel Functions & Formulas

Use the TRIM function to convert

“text-numbers” to real numbers

In this example numbers entered as text have to be converted to

values. To do this, use the VALUE and TRIM functions in combina-

tion to get the correct result. The VALUE function converts a text

string that represents a number to a number, and the TRIM func-

tion deletes all leading and trailing spaces.

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To convert text that represents a number to a value:

1. Format column A as text.

2. In cells A2:A10, type a series of numbers with leading

spaces.

3. Select cells B2:B10 and type the following formula:

=VALUE(TRIM(A2)).

4. Press <Ctrl+Enter>.

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Chapter 3

Figure 3-21