Excel Convert to Number Shortcut: Quick and Easy Steps

Understanding Excel Convert to Number Shortcut

If you have ever worked with Excel, you know how frustrating it can be when you have numbers stored as text. Excel treats these numbers as text, which can cause problems when you try to perform calculations. Luckily, Excel provides a convenient shortcut to convert text to numbers.

The Excel Convert to Number shortcut is a keyboard shortcut that allows you to quickly convert text to numbers. The shortcut is Alt + Menu Key + C, where the Menu Key is located between the Alt and Ctrl keys on the right side of the keyboard. If your keyboard does not have a menu key, you can use Shift + F10 as an alternate.

Using the Excel Convert to Number shortcut is easy. First, select the cells containing the text you want to convert. Then, press Alt + Menu Key + C, and Excel will automatically convert the selected text to numbers.

Alternatively, you can use the Ribbon to convert text to numbers. Select the cells containing the text you want to convert, then navigate to the Home tab on the Ribbon. In the Number group, click on the dropdown arrow next to the Number Format box, and select Number.

The Excel Convert to Number shortcut is a great time-saver, especially if you work with large amounts of data. It is also a useful tool for ensuring the accuracy of your calculations.

In conclusion, understanding the Excel Convert to Number shortcut can save you time and help you avoid errors in your calculations. Whether you prefer using keyboard shortcuts or the Ribbon, Excel provides multiple ways to convert text to numbers.

Dealing with Numbers Stored as Text

When working with Excel, it is important to ensure that your data is formatted correctly. One common issue that you may encounter is numbers stored as text. This can cause problems when you try to perform calculations or use the data in other ways. Fortunately, there are several ways to convert text into numbers in Excel.

Using Error Checking

One way to convert numbers stored as text is to use Excel’s error checking feature. This feature will identify cells that contain numbers stored as text and give you the option to convert them to numbers. To use this feature, you need to enable background error checking in the Excel preferences. Once enabled, Excel will automatically check for errors and alert you when it finds numbers stored as text.

Using the VALUE Function

Another way to convert text to numbers is by using the VALUE function. This function converts a text string that represents a number into a numeric value. To use the VALUE function, simply enter “=VALUE(A1)” in a cell, where “A1” is the cell that contains the text you want to convert. This will convert the text to a numeric value that you can use in your calculations.

Using Cell Format

You can also convert text to numbers by changing the cell format. If a cell is formatted as text, Excel will treat any value entered into that cell as text, even if it looks like a number. To convert text to numbers, you need to change the cell format to a numeric format, such as General or Number. To do this, select the cell or range of cells you want to convert, right-click and choose “Format Cells.” In the Format Cells dialog box, select the General or Number format and click OK.

Using Text to Columns

Another way to convert text to numbers is by using the Text to Columns feature. This feature allows you to split a cell that contains text into separate columns based on a delimiter, such as a space or comma. You can then convert these new columns to numeric values. To use Text to Columns, select the cell or range of cells you want to convert, click the Data tab, and then click Text to Columns. In the Text to Columns Wizard, choose Delimited and select the delimiter that separates the text in your cell. Click Finish to split the text into separate columns.

Using Convert to Number Shortcut

Finally, you can convert text to numbers using a keyboard shortcut. To do this, select the cell or range of cells you want to convert, press the Alt key and then press the Menu key (located between the Alt and Ctrl keys on the right side of the keyboard). Next, press the C key to select the Convert to Number option. This will convert the selected cells to numeric values.

In conclusion, there are several ways to convert numbers stored as text in Excel. Whether you prefer to use error checking, the VALUE function, cell format, Text to Columns, or the Convert to Number shortcut, each method is effective and easy to use. By converting text to numbers, you can ensure that your data is accurate and ready for use in your calculations.

Using the Excel Home Tab

If you want to convert text to numbers in Excel, one of the easiest ways to do so is by using the Excel Home tab. You can change the cell format on the Home tab, which is located at the top of the Excel window, to convert text to numbers.

To convert text to numbers using the Home tab, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell or cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.

2. Click on the Home tab at the top of the Excel window.

3. In the Number section, click on the drop-down box at the top of the section.

4. Choose “Number” from the list of options.

5. Excel will automatically convert the selected text to numbers.

In addition to converting text to numbers, the Home tab also allows you to adjust cell alignment, apply formatting, and more.

If you want to access additional options for converting text to numbers, you can also use the context menu or the Formulas tab. The context menu can be accessed by right-clicking on the selected cell or cells, while the Formulas tab is located at the top of the Excel window.

Overall, the Excel Home tab provides a quick and easy way to convert text to numbers in Excel. By changing the cell format, you can ensure that your data is accurate and easy to work with.

Excel Convert to Number for Different Versions

Converting text to numbers is a common task in Excel. Depending on the version of Excel you are using, there are different ways to convert text to numbers. In this section, we will cover the different methods for converting text to numbers in various versions of Excel.

Excel 2007, 2010, and 2013

To convert text to numbers in Excel 2007, 2010, and 2013, you can use the following steps:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. Click on the “Home” tab.
3. Click on the “Number Format” drop-down menu.
4. Select “Number” from the list of options.

Alternatively, you can use the “Text to Columns” feature to convert text to numbers. To use this feature, follow these steps:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. Click on the “Data” tab.
3. Click on the “Text to Columns” button.
4. In the “Convert Text to Columns Wizard”, select “Delimited” and click “Next”.
5. Select the delimiter that separates the text in your cells and click “Next”.
6. Select “General” as the column data format and click “Finish”.

Excel 2016, 2019, and Microsoft 365

To convert text to numbers in Excel 2016, 2019, and Microsoft 365, you can use the following steps:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. Right-click on the selected cells and click “Format Cells”.
3. In the “Format Cells” dialog box, select “Number” from the list of options.
4. Select the number of decimal places you want to display and click “OK”.

Alternatively, you can use the “Value” function to convert text to numbers. To use this function, follow these steps:

1. Insert a blank column next to the column that contains the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. In the first cell of the blank column, enter the formula “=VALUE(A1)” (assuming the text is in cell A1).
3. Copy the formula down the column to convert all the text to numbers.

Excel Starter 2010 and Mac

To convert text to numbers in Excel Starter 2010 and Mac, you can use the following steps:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. Click on the “Home” tab.
3. Click on the “Number Format” drop-down menu.
4. Select “Number” from the list of options.

Alternatively, you can use the “Value” function to convert text to numbers. To use this function, follow these steps:

1. Insert a blank column next to the column that contains the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. In the first cell of the blank column, enter the formula “=VALUE(A1)” (assuming the text is in cell A1).
3. Copy the formula down the column to convert all the text to numbers.

Excel 2011 for Mac

To convert text to numbers in Excel 2011 for Mac, you can use the following steps:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. Click on the “Format” drop-down menu.
3. Select “Cells” from the list of options.
4. In the “Format Cells” dialog box, select “Number” from the list of options.
5. Select the number of decimal places you want to display and click “OK”.

Alternatively, you can use the “Value” function to convert text to numbers. To use this function, follow these steps:

1. Insert a blank column next to the column that contains the text you want to convert to numbers.
2. In the first cell of the blank column, enter the formula “=VALUE(A1)” (assuming the text is in cell A1).
3. Copy the formula down the column to convert all the text to numbers.

In conclusion, converting text to numbers is a simple task in Excel. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily convert text to numbers in different versions of Excel.

Excel Convert to Number Using Paste Special

If you have a column of numbers stored as text, you can easily convert them to numbers using the Paste Special feature in Excel. Here’s how:

1. Select a blank cell and enter the value “1”.
2. With the cell selected, press “Ctrl + C” or right-click and choose “Copy”.
3. Select the range of cells you want to convert to numbers.
4. Right-click a cell in the range and select “Paste Special” and then “Paste Special” again.
5. In the “Paste Special” dialog box, select “Values” and then “Multiply” under “Operation”.

This will convert the text values to numbers by multiplying them by 1. Excel will treat the result as a number and not as text.

You can also use the “Add”, “Subtract”, or “Divide” options under “Operation” in the “Paste Special” dialog box, depending on your needs.

Keep in mind that if there are any non-numeric characters in the cells, such as commas or dollar signs, they will need to be removed before using the Paste Special feature. You can use the “Replace” feature to quickly remove these characters.

In conclusion, the Paste Special feature in Excel is a quick and easy way to convert text values to numbers. With just a few clicks, you can convert an entire column of data.

Excel Convert to Number Using Formulas

If you have a column of numbers that are formatted as text, you can use formulas to convert them to numbers in Excel. Here are a few ways to do it:

Using the VALUE Function

The easiest way to convert text to numbers in Excel is to use the VALUE function. Here’s how:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert.
2. Enter the following formula: =VALUE(cell), where “cell” is the first cell in the selected range.
3. Press Enter.

Excel will convert the text to numbers in the selected cells.

Using the Paste Special Feature

Another way to convert text to numbers in Excel is to use the Paste Special feature. Here’s how:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert.
2. Press Ctrl+C to copy the cells.
3. Right-click on the first cell where you want to paste the numbers and select “Paste Special”.
4. In the Paste Special dialog box, select “Values” and click “OK”.

Excel will paste the numbers as values in the selected cells.

Using the Define Name Feature

If you have a large number of cells that need to be converted, you can use the Define Name feature in Excel. Here’s how:

1. Select the cells that contain the text you want to convert.
2. Click on the “Formulas” tab in the ribbon.
3. Click on “Define Name” in the “Defined Names” group.
4. In the “New Name” dialog box, enter a name for the range of cells you selected.
5. Click “OK”.
6. Enter the following formula: =VALUE(name), where “name” is the name you gave to the range of cells.
7. Press Enter.

Excel will convert the text to numbers in the selected cells.

Using Formulas

If you want to convert text to numbers in Excel using formulas, you can use the following formula:

=IF(ISNUMBER(cell),cell,VALUE(cell))

This formula checks if the cell contains a number. If it does, it leaves the cell as is. If it doesn’t, it converts the text to a number.

You can use this formula in a new column or in the same column as the text you want to convert. Just replace “cell” with the reference to the cell you want to check.

In conclusion, there are several ways to convert text to numbers in Excel. Whether you use the VALUE function, Paste Special, Define Name, or formulas, the process is quick and easy.

Excel Convert to Number for Different Data Types

If you have ever worked with data in Excel, you may have encountered situations where numbers are stored as text. This can lead to errors when trying to perform calculations or data analysis. Fortunately, Excel offers various methods to convert text to numbers. In this section, we will explore some of the ways you can convert text to numbers for different data types.

Numbers

When dealing with numerical data, you can use the VALUE function to convert text to numbers. This function takes a text string as input and returns a numeric value. For example, if cell A1 contains the text “123”, you can convert it to a number by entering the formula “=VALUE(A1)” in another cell.

Another way to convert text to numbers is to use the Paste Special feature. First, select the cells containing the text you want to convert. Then, right-click and choose “Paste Special”. In the dialog box, select “Values” and “Add” or “Multiply” depending on your needs. This will replace the text with numeric values.

Currency and Percentages

If you have currency or percentage values stored as text, you can use the same methods as for numbers. However, you may also want to format the cells to display the correct currency or percentage symbol. To do this, select the cells you want to format, right-click, and choose “Format Cells”. In the dialog box, select “Currency” or “Percentage” under the “Number” tab.

Dates and Times

Excel stores dates and times as serial numbers, which can be displayed in various formats. If you have date or time values stored as text, you can use the DATEVALUE or TIMEVALUE functions to convert them to serial numbers. For example, if cell A1 contains the text “01/01/2023”, you can convert it to a date by entering the formula “=DATEVALUE(A1)” in another cell.

To format the dates or times, select the cells you want to format, right-click, and choose “Format Cells”. In the dialog box, select “Date” or “Time” under the “Number” tab. You can also choose from various date and time formats.

Other Data Types

Excel can also convert text to numbers for other data types such as seconds, minutes, hours, days, and years. For example, you can use the TIME function to convert text to a time value. If cell A1 contains the text “12:30 PM”, you can convert it to a time value by entering the formula “=TIMEVALUE(A1)” in another cell.

In conclusion, Excel offers various methods to convert text to numbers for different data types. By using these methods, you can ensure that your data is accurate and ready for analysis.

Excel Convert to Number for Different Cell Formats

When working with Excel, it is important to ensure that the data is in the correct format to avoid errors in calculations or sorting. Sometimes, data may be formatted as text instead of numbers, which can cause issues. Luckily, Excel provides several ways to convert text to numbers, including keyboard shortcuts.

To convert a cell formatted as text to a number format, you can use the following keyboard shortcut: ALT + H + E + F. This shortcut works for cells with the General format, as well as cells formatted as Number or Currency.

If your cell is formatted as Date or Time, you can use the CTRL + SHIFT + # shortcut to convert it to a number format. This will display the underlying serial number that Excel uses to represent dates and times.

If you have a range of cells that are formatted as text, you can quickly convert them to number format using the following steps:

1. Select the range of cells you want to convert.
2. Right-click on the selection and choose “Format Cells” from the context menu.
3. In the Format Cells dialog box, select “Number” from the Category list.
4. Choose the desired number format from the list of options.
5. Click “OK” to apply the changes.

It is important to note that if a cell is formatted as text, you may see a green triangle in the upper-left corner of the cell. This indicates that Excel has detected a potential error and suggests converting the cell to a number format.

In conclusion, converting text to numbers in Excel is a simple process that can save you time and prevent errors in your calculations. Whether you are working with cells formatted as General, Number, Currency, Date, or Time, Excel provides keyboard shortcuts and formatting options to help you convert your data to the correct format.

Excel Convert to Number for Entire Sheet or Columns

When working with data in Excel, it is common to encounter numbers that are stored as text. This can cause issues when trying to use these numbers in calculations or formulas. Fortunately, Excel provides several ways to convert text to numbers, including for entire sheets or columns.

To convert an entire sheet to numbers, you can use the Text to Columns feature. Simply select all the cells in the sheet, then go to the Data tab and click on Text to Columns. In the wizard that appears, choose Fixed Width, and then click Finish. This will convert all the selected cells to numbers.

To convert an entire column to numbers, you can use the Paste Special feature. First, copy a blank cell. Then, select the entire column you want to convert, right-click, and choose Paste Special. In the Paste Special dialog box, choose Multiply, and then click OK. This will convert all the selected cells to numbers.

Another way to convert an entire column to numbers is by using the Fill Handle. First, select the entire column you want to convert. Then, click on the cell in the column that contains a number. Drag the Fill Handle down to the bottom of the column. This will convert all the selected cells to numbers.

If you only want to convert specific cells in a column to numbers, you can use the VALUE function. Simply enter “=VALUE(cell)” in the first cell you want to convert, and then drag the formula down to the other cells you want to convert.

In summary, there are several ways to convert text to numbers in Excel, including for entire sheets or columns. Whether you use the Text to Columns feature, Paste Special, Fill Handle, or the VALUE function, you can quickly and easily convert text to numbers and avoid calculation errors.

Advanced Excel Convert to Number Techniques

If you work with Excel regularly, you know how important it is to convert text to numbers. There are several ways to do this, including using the built-in feature, quick analysis, and VBA. In this section, we will explore some advanced Excel convert to number techniques that can help you save time and work more efficiently.

Using VBA

If you are comfortable working with VBA, you can use it to convert text to numbers in Excel. Here’s an example of a VBA code that you can use:

Sub ConvertToNumber()
    Dim cell As Range
    For Each cell In Selection
        If IsNumeric(cell.Value) Then
            cell.Value = cell.Value + 0
        End If
    Next cell
End Sub

This code will convert all selected cells that contain numbers stored as text to numbers. To use this code, you need to select the cells that you want to convert and then run the macro.

Using Quick Analysis

Quick Analysis is a built-in feature that can help you convert text to numbers quickly. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Select the cells that you want to convert.
2. Press Ctrl+Q on your keyboard.
3. In the Quick Analysis gallery, click on the “Convert to Number” button.

Excel will convert the selected cells to numbers.

Using Ctrl+Q

Ctrl+Q is another shortcut that you can use to convert text to numbers in Excel. Here’s how:

1. Select the cells that you want to convert.
2. Press Ctrl+Q on your keyboard.

Excel will convert the selected cells to numbers.

Using the Web

If you have a large dataset that you want to convert to numbers, you can use an online tool to do this. There are several websites that can help you convert text to numbers, including ConvertCSV.com and Online-Convert.com. Simply upload your CSV file to the website, select the option to convert text to numbers, and download the converted file.

In conclusion, there are several advanced Excel convert to number techniques that you can use to save time and work more efficiently. Whether you prefer using VBA, Quick Analysis, Ctrl+Q, or the web, there’s an option that’s right for you.