sorting numbers in a column

  • Thread starter Thread starter Melissa
  • Start date Start date
M

Melissa

I am trying to sort numbers in a column, in numerical
order. Instead, everytime I sort I get all of the 1's
first, then the 2's, etc.

I want 1, 2, 3, ...23, 30

I keep getting 1, 2, 23, 3, 30

Thank you in advance for your help!
 
Sounds like your numbers (in the column you're trying to sort) are currently
formatted as TEXT. Sorting numbers in text format comes out
1,11,18,2,23,25,256,3,.....
You need to convert them to numbers to sort them the way you want them.
In a blank cell somewhere in your sheet enter the number 1, then copy it
(the lone cell with the 1 in it). then highlight the column of numbers your
wanting to sort and at the toolbar, click on Edit, Paste-Special, Multiply,
OK. This will convert your text numbers to numeric numbers (maybe requiring
you to then Format then as General-type.
Erase the 1 in whatever cell you placed it in. You no longer need it.
HTH

Backup/Save your file before trying...
 
Melissa,

You have the numbers formatted as text (which is why you're getting
that result).
Format the numbers as General or Number (and remove any
apostrophies you might have before the numbers).

John
 
It appears you have numbers formatted as text as others have mentioned. If
you want to keep them this way, and you are using Excel XP, then don't use
the Sort toolbar button. Instead, use <Data> <Sort>. After you hit "ok",
Excel will prompt you as to how you want to sort the numbers.
 
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