Split Function to Split Text to Columns or Rows in Google Sheets

Are you tired of manually organizing data in your Google Sheets? Look no further! With the help of the SPLIT function, you can easily split text to columns or rows in Google Sheets. Whether you’re an Excel user or new to spreadsheets, this powerful feature is worth exploring. In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of the SPLIT function, revealing its potential and utility in various scenarios. So, let’s get started!

Why Split Text to Columns or Rows?

Before we dive into the details, let’s understand why the split feature is essential for spreadsheet management. Here are a few scenarios where it comes in handy:

Scenario 1:

Imagine having an employee list where the first, middle, and last names are combined in a single column. If you want to separate them into different columns, the Split function in Google Sheets is your go-to tool.

Scenario 2:

Let’s say you imported content from another software tool, such as Tally, which is in a comma-delimited format. To convert it into a tabular form, you can use the Split function to split the imported text.

Scenario 3:

When dealing with comma-delimited or custom SIF files, the Split function allows you to organize and transform the data into a structured format.

Scenario 4:

Last but not least, the Split function proves invaluable when you need to split text strings into columns for any similar situations.

Syntax and Arguments of the SPLIT Function

Before we explore how to use the Split function, let’s understand its syntax and arguments:

Syntax: SPLIT(text, delimiter, [split_by_each], [remove_empty_text])

• text: The text you want to split.
• delimiter: The character(s) used to split the text.
• split_by_each: An optional argument that determines whether to split text around each character contained in the delimiter.
• remove_empty_text: Another optional argument that removes empty cells in the split result.

Now that we have a good grasp of the basics, let’s look at some examples illustrating the use of the Split function.

How to Split Text in a Cell to Columns

To split text in a cell to columns using the Split function, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell containing the text you want to split.
2. Use the formula =SPLIT(A2, " ") to split the text based on a space delimiter. For example, if cell A2 contains the text “Info Inspired,” the formula will separate it into two separate words: “Info” and “Inspired.”

You can also use other delimiters like commas and semicolons to achieve the desired splitting effect.

How to Split Text in a Cell to Rows

By default, the Split function splits text into columns. However, if you want to split text into rows, you can use the transpose function with SPLIT. Here’s how:

1. Start by splitting the text as usual using the formula =SPLIT(A2, " ").
2. Then, to convert the split result into rows, use the formula =TRANSPOSE(SPLIT(A2, " ")).

By following these steps, you can easily split text in a cell to rows.

Advanced Splitting Techniques: Array Formula and Multiple Delimiters

Array Formula with SPLIT Function

When you need to split a large number of rows using the same criteria, you can save time and effort by using an Array Formula in combination with the Split function. This allows you to perform batch splitting with minimal effort.

Multiple Delimiters in Split Function

Did you know that you can use multiple delimiters in the Split function? By setting the split_by_each argument to TRUE or omitting it altogether, you can specify multiple delimiters within double quotes. This is especially useful when you want to split based on different patterns or symbols.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Split function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool that simplifies the process of splitting text to columns or rows. By harnessing its capabilities, you can efficiently organize and structure your data with ease. To become a Split function master, practice using it regularly. If you’re hungry for more advanced tutorials related to Splitting, check out the Mr Reviews platform for additional insights.

Remember, Google Sheets’ Split function is your secret weapon for efficient data manipulation. Don’t miss out on its potential. Happy splitting!