How to Extract Only Numbers From a Cell in Excel?

Are you looking for an efficient way to extract only numbers from a cell in Excel? If so, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to easily extract only numbers from a cell in Excel. We will also discuss the different ways you can use this technique to make your Excel tasks simpler and faster. So, let’s get started!

Extracting Numbers from a Cell in Excel

Excel allows users to extract specific information from a cell, including numbers. The ability to do this can be useful for data analysis, creating charts, and making calculations. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to extract only numbers from a cell in Excel.

Using the LEFT Function

The LEFT function in Excel is an easy and straightforward way to extract numbers from a cell. The function returns a specific number of characters from the left side of the cell. To use the LEFT function, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will choose the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using Wildcard Characters

The LEFT function can be combined with wildcard characters in order to extract only numbers from a cell. The asterisk (*) is used as a wildcard character to match any character, including numbers. To use this method, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will enter the asterisk (*) followed by the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using the FIND Function

The FIND function in Excel can also be used to extract only numbers from a cell. The function returns the starting position of a character or a string of characters within a cell. To use the FIND function, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will enter the character or string of characters you want to find. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using the MID Function

The MID function in Excel is another way to extract only numbers from a cell. The function returns a specific number of characters from the middle of a cell. To use the MID function, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will choose the starting position of the characters you want to extract and the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using Wildcard Characters

The MID function can also be combined with wildcard characters in order to extract only numbers from a cell. The asterisk (*) is used as a wildcard character to match any character, including numbers. To use this method, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will enter the asterisk (*) followed by the starting position of the characters you want to extract and the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using the RIGHT Function

The RIGHT function in Excel is the final way to extract only numbers from a cell. The function returns a specific number of characters from the right side of the cell. To use the RIGHT function, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will choose the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Using Wildcard Characters

The RIGHT function can also be combined with wildcard characters in order to extract only numbers from a cell. The asterisk (*) is used as a wildcard character to match any character, including numbers. To use this method, you will first need to enter the cell reference containing the data you want to extract. Then, you will enter the asterisk (*) followed by the number of characters you want to extract. Finally, you will enter the function into the cell you wish to extract the data to.

Related Faq

What is a Cell in Excel?

A cell in Excel is the intersection of a row and a column. Cells are the basic unit of data in Excel and are used to store information. Each cell has a unique address called its “cell reference” which is a combination of the column letter and row number. Cells can contain text, numbers, formulas, and other data types.

What is the Function Used to Extract Only Numbers From a Cell in Excel?

The function used to extract only numbers from a cell in Excel is the “VALUE” function. This function takes a string or text value as an argument and returns a numeric value. It is useful when you have a cell containing a mixture of numbers and text, and you need to extract only the numbers.

How Do You Use the VALUE Function?

The syntax of the VALUE function is “VALUE(text)”. You can use it in a cell as a formula, by entering it in the cell and using the appropriate cell reference. For example, if the cell you want to extract the numbers from is A1, you would enter “=VALUE(A1)” in the cell where you want the number to appear.

What Happens If the Cell Contains Only Text?

If the cell contains only text, the VALUE function will return an error. This is because it cannot convert text to a numerical value. In this case, you will need to use a different function to extract the text, such as the “TEXT” function.

What Happens If the Cell Contains Only Numbers?

If the cell contains only numbers, the VALUE function will return the numerical value. This is because it is designed to convert text to a numerical value. It will ignore any punctuation or non-numeric characters in the cell.

What Other Functions Can Be Used To Extract Only Numbers From a Cell in Excel?

Other functions that can be used to extract only numbers from a cell in Excel include the “NUMBERVALUE” and “SUBSTITUTE” functions. The “NUMBERVALUE” function takes a text string as an argument and returns the numerical value. The “SUBSTITUTE” function takes a text string and replaces a specified character with another one, which can be used to remove unwanted characters from a text string.

Extract Numbers from TEXT in Excel

In conclusion, extracting only numbers from a cell in Excel can be a time-consuming task, especially if you are dealing with large data sets. However, with the help of the various formulas and techniques discussed in this article, you can efficiently and quickly extract only numbers from a cell in Excel. With a bit of practice, you can easily become an Excel master and manage complex data sets with ease.