Truncating cells

[Matt Verdill]

Hello,
I have a spreadsheet full of student names (Last, First, Middle) each in a
separate column. I need to shorten the Middle Name column down to just the
Middle Initial (1 character). It would be nice to do these using a function
rather that edit them individually.

I've tried the truncate function but could not get that to work. Any
suggestions?

Thanks,
Matt Verdill

 

[James Walker]

Greetings,

You need to use the LEFT function. In a new cell, type this formula:

=LEFT(A1,1)

Where A1 is the cell with the Middle Name and 1 is the number of characters.

James Walker, Jr.

 

[Dave Peterson]

=left(b2,1)

and drag down should give you the first character in cell B2.

 

[Beege]

Matt,

I think I can handle this...

LEFT(A1,1)

If you need the period at the end its

=LEFT(A1,1)&"."

Beege.

 

[RagDyer]

Insert a "helper" column between B and C.
Select Column B with the Middle names, then:
<Data> <TextToColumns>
Click "Fixed Width", then <Next>

Click in the preview window to create a "break line", and drag the line to
separate the first initial from the rest of the name.
Then, <Finish>

You now have Column B filled with *only* the first initial, and this is
actual text, *not* a formula returning text.

You can delete the "helper" Column C if you wish.
--
HTH,

RD
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Please keep all correspondence within the Group, so all may benefit!
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