If you’re working with a large database or just need to combine first and last names, Excel is an excellent tool to get the job done. With just a few clicks, you can merge the first and last names of a list of people and save yourself time and effort. In this guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step How to Combine First and Last Names in Excel.
How to Combine First and Last Names in Excel
Combing a first and last name in excel is not hard to achieve with the CONCATENATE function. Let’s jump right into it:
Step 1: Open Excel and select your data
To start, open your Excel spreadsheet and select the data that you want to merge. This should include both the first name and last name of each individual.
Step 2: Insert a new column
Once you have selected your data, you need to insert a new column where the combined names will be displayed. To do this, right-click on the column next to your data and select “Insert.”
Step 3: Enter the formula
Now that you have a new column, it’s time to enter the formula that will combine the first and last names. In the first row of the new column, type the following formula:
=CONCATENATE(A2," ",B2)This formula combines the first and last names in cells A2 and B2 and inserts a space between them.
Step 4: Fill down the formula
Now that you have your formula in the first row, it’s time to fill it down in the entire column. To do this, hover over the bottom right corner of the cell with the formula until you see a black cross. Then, click and drag down the column to fill the formula down to the last row.
Step 5: Copy and paste as values
Finally, you need to copy and paste the combined names as values to remove the formula. To do this, select the entire column with the combined names, right-click, and select “Copy.” Then, right-click again and select “Paste Special.” In the Paste Special dialog box, select “Values” and click “OK.” Your combined names will now be displayed as text.
Video Tutorial: How to Combine First and Last Names in Excel
What’s Next?
Congratulations, you’ve successfully combined first and last names in Excel! But Excel is a powerful tool with many more functions and features to explore. The next logical step would be to learn more about formulas and functions in Excel to become more efficient and productive.
Learn More About Excel
If you’re interested in learning more about Excel, Sheet Leveller is an excellent resource to check out. With courses on everything from beginner to advanced Excel, Sheet Leveller has you covered.