Check Cell Data is Text or Number, a vital function in Excel, assists users in determining the nature of data within cells. This feature is particularly handy when handling large datasets, ensuring data accuracy and facilitating smooth data processing. By quickly identifying whether the data is text or numerical, users can streamline their workflow, make informed decisions, and avoid potential errors. With this capability, Excel users can confidently manipulate data, conduct analysis, and generate accurate reports. Thus, mastering the Check Cell Data is Text or Number function empowers users to optimize their Excel experience, enhancing productivity and data integrity.
How to check if a value is numeric or text?
Values in Excel worksheets may appear to be numbers, but they do not add up, do not multiply, and cause formula problems. Numbers formatted as text are a common cause of this.
Function ISNUMBER to check if a value is numeric or text.
To determine whether a value is a number, use the ISNUMBER function. If it is a number, it returns TRUE; otherwise, it returns FALSE.
To calculate, follow below process:
Step-1: Prepare a data table with information outlined below:
Step-2: Set a formula in cell C-2, outlined below:
Formula:
=ISNUMBER(B2)
Step-3: Copy it to each of the other cells in the column. Result outlined below:
How to convert text to number in Excel?
Option 1:
Convert to number in Excel with error checking / Use the Warning Symbol
Step-1: First, choose the cells you want to convert back to number format.
Step-2: Click the exclamation mark icon.
Step-3: From the dropdown, choose Convert to Number.
This will convert all text-based numbers you’ve selected to the General numeric data format. Result outlined below:
Option 2: Convert text into number by changing the cell format
Step-1: First, choose the cells you want to convert back to number format.
Step-2: Click the Home menu, and then, from the Number Format drop-down menu, select General or Number.
Alternatively,
Step-2: Right-click the cell(s) and select “Format Cells.”
Step-3: Choose the Number tab, then “Number” on the left. Adjust the Decimal Places, if necessary, then click “OK.”
Result outlined in below:
Option 3: Convert string to number with ‘Text to Columns’:
Step-1: First, choose the cells you want to convert back to number format.
Step-2: From the Data menu, pick Text to Columns in the Data Tools section of the ribbon.
Step-3: Keep the default Delimited justification in the Wizard window and click Next.
Step-4: Keep the default Tab selected on the following Wizard screen, and then click Next.
Step-5: Make sure General is selected under Column data format on the Wizard’s final page. For the Destination field, you may either choose a new column or leave the present column alone. Select Finish.
NOTE: Even if the values themselves can now be used as numbers, the actual cell formatting does not change from Text to General. However, if you change your output column to a new column, you will notice that the new column’s formatting is set to General.
Option 4: Convert Text to Number with Multiply by 1
Step-1: Select an adjunct cell and put the formula.
FORMULA:
=B2*1
Step-2: Press enter and drag down the formula to the other cell. Result outlined in below:
NOTE: Make sure to select the General format for the formula cells.
Option 5: Change text to number with Paste Special- Multiply
Step-1: Enter the number 1 in any cell.
Step-2: Copy the value of that cell.
Step-3: To convert, select the cells with text values.
Step-4: Right-click, then click the arrow to the right of Paste Special and choose Paste Special.
ALTERNATIVE: Go to the Home tab, the click on Paste list arrow and select Paste Special.
ALTERNATIVE:
Step-5: Select Multiply from the Operation category in the Paste Special dialog box.
Result outlined in below:
Option 6: Convert text to number with a Value formula
Step-1: Insert a new column to the right of the data that needs to convert.
Step-2: Type the VALUE function in the new cell.
Formula:
=Value(B2:B5)
Step-3: Press enter. Result outlined in below:
Application of Check Cell Data is Text or Number
- Data Validation: Ensure text or number entry in specific cells for accuracy.
- Conditional Formatting: Highlight text or number cells for visual clarity.
- Formulas: Differentiate between text and numerical calculations for accurate results.
- Sorting and Filtering: Sort or filter data by text or numeric values for organization.
- Data Analysis: Identify text or numeric trends for informed decision-making.
- Import/Export: Prepare data for import or export by verifying text or numeric formats.
For ready-to-use Dashboard Templates:
