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How to convert text to a number in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:Text manipulationExcel & Google Sheets
=VALUE(A2)Try it with your data
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Step by step
- 1In a new column, enter =VALUE(A2) to convert the text-number.
- 2Or use =A2*1, which also forces a real number.
- 3Copy down, then paste as values over the originals if needed.
Tips
- Text-numbers usually align left and may show a green triangle in Excel; real numbers align right.
- If VALUE errors, the text has stray characters — clean it with =VALUE(TRIM(SUBSTITUTE(A2, ",", ""))).
Need it for your exact data?
Describe your columns in plain English and get the precise formula for your sheet, with the right Excel or Sheets syntax.
Frequently asked
Why does SUM ignore some of my numbers?
They are stored as text, not numbers. Convert them with VALUE() or multiply by 1, then SUM will include them.
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