MIcrosoft Excel Tutorial: Breaking up Text Strings (First and Last Name)

Ever get a spreadsheet full of names that had "Joe Smith" in one column? I will show you how to break it up so "Joe" and "Smith" are in separate columns.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• microsoft
• excel
• tutorial

[identity4free]

Hi. I have a problem. Please help. How to extract and divide into separate lists all 2 letter names, all 3 letter names, 4 letter names, from a name/list of names?

Thank you.

[johnhilb]

Since there is some talk about using Text to Columns and I made a video demonstrating Text to columns on three names I will chime in. I would say if only 2 names Text to columns would do it with a single menu button push so its a nobrainer. As for three names Text to columns uses post manipulating after they are moved to seperate columns which some may find easier (shorter formulas). As for video though very professional and informative and voice very clear.

[jhunlap]

THNX A LOT!

[Kidtrd]

Text to column works, until you get files that have also included the middle name or even the title, i.e. Dr. John B. Brown. Your text to colomns just bought you problems. I have used both methods, and there is a time and place for both. ExcelisFun is good, if you can get past the voice.

[BigCreep]

I agree - text to columns is easier and quicker. Especially if you have to deal with middle names or suffixes.

Great tutorial though, you explained 4 different functions in 5 minutes.

[Alvinlaw003]

Thanks for sharing. I used to use text to column function to separate first names and last names.

[comecra85]

There is easier method -- use text to columns and specify " " as a separator

[qwertyfshag]

awesome. Great tutorial