Removing duplicates from a list of addresses

[bakerman]

I have a database of 6000+ addresses that includes many duplicates. I need
to delete the duplicates. The problem is the addresses weren't entered with
common formatting (Road vs. Rd, Lane vs. Ln, (555) 555-5555 vs. 555-555-5555)
which throws off excel's function for scanning and removing duplicates. The
silver lining is one column does contain a standard identifying digit that
would be the same no matter how the address, phone number, zip code or
contact name was entered. How do I remove the duplicate rows using just that
one column of data as the criteria?

 

[Dave O]

Here's one way:
1. Make a backup copy of your data, as a disaster recovery tactic.
2. If you need the addresses to stay in their current order, insert a
column and number each row.
3. Suppose the column that contains your silver lining number is
column F. Sort all rows on this number.
4. Insert a new column next to F, let's call it G, and enter this
formula:
=IF(F2=F1,"XXXXX","") then copy and paste it into all rows. It marks
duplicates with the XXXXX entry.
5. Sort on column G so all the XXXXXs are grouped, then delete them.
6. If you need to return the rows to their original order, sort on the
column you created in #2 above.

DaveO
Eschew Obfuscation