How to Change Number to Text in Excel
Excel is a powerful tool for data analysis and management, but sometimes you may encounter situations where you need to convert numbers into text format. This can be useful for various reasons, such as ensuring that numbers are treated as text in calculations or for formatting purposes. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to change numbers to text in Excel.
Method 1: Using the TEXT Function
The TEXT function in Excel allows you to convert numbers to text format based on a specified format. Here’s how you can use it:
1. Select the cell where you want to display the converted text.
2. Type the following formula: =TEXT(cell reference, “format code”).
3. Replace “cell reference” with the actual cell reference of the number you want to convert.
4. Replace “format code” with the desired text format. For example, if you want to display numbers with commas and two decimal places, you can use “0,000.00”.
Example:
Let’s say you have the number 123456 in cell A1 and you want to display it as “123,456”. Follow these steps:
1. Select cell B1.
2. Type the formula: =TEXT(A1, “0,000”).
3. Press Enter, and the number in cell A1 will be converted to text with commas in cell B1.
Method 2: Using the TEXTBOX Tool
Another way to convert numbers to text in Excel is by using the TEXTBOX tool. Here’s how to do it:
1. Select the cell containing the number you want to convert.
2. Go to the “Insert” tab on the ribbon.
3. Click on “Text Box” and then click and drag to create a text box on your worksheet.
4. In the text box, type the following formula: =TEXT(cell reference, “format code”).
5. Replace “cell reference” with the actual cell reference of the number you want to convert.
6. Replace “format code” with the desired text format.
7. Click outside the text box, and the number will be displayed as text in the text box.
Method 3: Using the CONCATENATE Function
The CONCATENATE function can also be used to convert numbers to text in Excel. Here’s how to use it:
1. Select the cell where you want to display the converted text.
2. Type the following formula: =CONCATENATE(text, number).
3. Replace “text” with any text you want to precede the number.
4. Replace “number” with the cell reference of the number you want to convert.
5. Press Enter, and the number will be displayed as text with the specified text preceding it.
Conclusion
Converting numbers to text in Excel can be achieved using various methods, such as the TEXT function, TEXTBOX tool, and CONCATENATE function. Choose the method that suits your needs and follow the steps outlined in this article to successfully convert numbers to text in Excel.
