How To Remove Apostrophe Before Number In Excel

Struggling with unwanted apostrophes in Excel before numbers can disrupt data processing and analysis. This common issue often arises when importing data from other sources or when certain formatting is applied.

Our guide provides step-by-step instructions to efficiently remove apostrophes from numbers in Excel, ensuring your data is clean and ready for use.

Additionally, we'll explore why using Sourcetable for this task can be a more straightforward solution compared to traditional methods in Excel.

How to Remove Apostrophe in Excel Before Number

Using Text to Columns

Excel's Text to Columns tool can strip leading apostrophes from numbers. Select the affected cells, navigate to the Data tab, and click on 'Text to Columns'. Choose 'Delimited', click 'Next', uncheck all delimiters, and finalize by clicking 'Finish'.

Paste as Values

To remove apostrophes, copy the cells and use the 'Paste as Values' tool under the Home tab. This method can resolve apostrophe issues, especially when combined with Text to Columns if the first attempt fails.

Using Kutools for Excel

Kutools for Excel provides a one-click solution to eliminate leading apostrophes and convert text-formatted numbers to standard numbers. Install Kutools, select the cells, and apply the appropriate tool.

Find and Replace Method

The Find and Replace functionality can quickly remove apostrophes. Press Ctrl+F, switch to the Replace tab, enter an apostrophe in the 'Find what' box, leave the 'Replace with' box empty, and click 'Replace All'.

Applying Excel Formulas

Utilize the VALUE function to convert text to numbers, effectively dropping the apostrophe. Enter =VALUE(A1) in a new cell, where A1 is your text-formatted number, and then copy the formula as needed.

Clear Formats Tool

Excel’s Clear Formats tool can sometimes resolve the issue by removing text formatting from numbers. Select the cells, go to the Home tab, and click on 'Clear' and choose 'Clear Formats'.

VBA Macro Method

For bulk data, a VBA macro efficiently removes all leading apostrophes. Press Alt+F11 to open the VBA editor, insert a new module, and write the provided code snippet. Execute the macro to cleanse multiple cells simultaneously.

Excel vs. Sourcetable: A Comprehensive Comparison

Excel has long been the go-to spreadsheet tool for data analysis, but Sourcetable offers a modern approach by integrating multiple data sources. This key feature simplifies data management, allowing users to aggregate data for streamlined analysis.

Sourcetable's AI copilot sets it apart from Excel. It assists users in formula creation and template design through a user-friendly chat interface, enhancing efficiency and reducing the learning curve for complex tasks.

While Excel relies on user knowledge for formula development, Sourcetable's AI-driven assistance empowers users to perform advanced data operations with minimal manual input. This innovation enhances productivity, especially for those with less technical expertise.

In summary, Sourcetable's integration capabilities and AI-assisted interface offer a significant advantage for users seeking a more intuitive and connected data analysis experience compared to the traditional, manual approach of Excel.