How To Remove The First 4 Characters In Excel

Remove First 4 Characters in Excel

Using Functions

Utilize the REPLACE function to remove the first 4 characters from a text string in a cell. Combine it with the RIGHT and LEN functions for a precise operation. The formula syntax is =REPLACE(A1, 1, 4, "") for cell A1. Alternatively, use =RIGHT(A1, LEN(A1)-4) to keep the remaining characters after the first four.

Flash Fill

Flash Fill, available in Excel 2013 and later, automates the removal of the first 4 characters. Type the desired result in the cell next to the original data, select the cell, and trigger Flash Fill by pressing Ctrl + E.

Ultimate Suite Add-In

The Ablebits Ultimate Suite for Excel offers an intuitive tool for removing characters. This feature simplifies the removal process, allowing you to delete the first 4 characters with a click.

Custom Functions

For personalized solutions, create custom functions with VBA to remove any number of characters from the beginning of a string.

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