Combining two columns in Excel is a common task that helps you merge data into a single cell. Whether you're combining first and last names, city and state, or any other information, Excel offers several simple methods to do this efficiently. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to combine two columns in Excel using various techniques.
Why You Might Need to Combine Two Columns in Excel
Before diving into the methods, let’s discuss why you might need to combine columns in Excel:
- Data Cleanup: Merging first names with last names or street addresses with cities.
- Reporting: Creating combined columns for use in charts or reports.
- Efficiency: Saving time when dealing with large datasets.
Combining data makes it easier to manipulate and analyze information, especially when you need to create custom columns for reporting or presentation.
1. How to Combine Two Columns Using the CONCATENATE Function
One of the simplest ways to combine columns in Excel is by using the CONCATENATE function. This function allows you to merge text from two or more cells into one.
Step-by-Step: Using CONCATENATE to Combine Columns
Select the Cell for the Combined Data: Click on the cell where you want the result to appear. If you're combining data from columns A and B, click on the cell where you want the combined value to be placed (let's say C1).
Enter the CONCATENATE Formula: In the selected cell, type:
- A1: The first cell you want to combine.
- " ": A space between the text from the two columns (optional, depending on your needs).
- B1: The second cell to combine.
Press Enter: Hit Enter, and you'll see the data from columns A and B combined into the new cell.
Drag the Formula Down: If you want to apply this formula to the entire column, drag the small square in the bottom-right corner of the cell down to fill the rest of the rows.
2. How to Combine Two Columns Using the Ampersand (&)
If you're looking for a more compact and easier-to-remember method, you can use the ampersand (&) symbol to combine text in Excel. It works in a similar way to the CONCATENATE function but is shorter to type.
Step-by-Step: Using the Ampersand to Combine Data
Select the Cell: Click the cell where you want the combined data (for example, C1).
Enter the Formula: Type the following formula:
- A1 and B1: The cells you want to combine.
- " ": A space between the two values (optional).
Press Enter: After pressing Enter, the combined result will appear in the selected cell.
Copy the Formula Down: Use the fill handle to drag the formula down to other rows.
Using the ampersand is a great option for those who prefer a quicker method without the need for typing a function name.
3. How to Combine Two Columns Using TEXTJOIN (Excel 2016 and Later)
If you're using Excel 2016 or later, the TEXTJOIN function is an excellent alternative for combining columns, especially when working with large datasets.
Step-by-Step: Using TEXTJOIN to Merge Data
Select the Cell: Click the cell where you want the combined result to appear.
Enter the TEXTJOIN Formula: In the selected cell, type:
- " ": The delimiter (space) between the combined values.
- TRUE: Ignore any empty cells.
- A1 and B1: The cells you want to combine.
Press Enter: Once you press Enter, the values will be combined.
Copy the Formula Down: Drag the formula down the column to apply it to the rest of your data.
TEXTJOIN is particularly useful if you have multiple columns to combine, as it allows you to include delimiters and handle empty cells efficiently.
4. How to Combine Two Columns Using Power Query (For Advanced Users)
For more complex data combinations, Excel’s Power Query tool allows you to merge columns in a more structured way. Power Query is ideal when you need to perform advanced transformations or combine data from different sheets.
Step-by-Step: Using Power Query to Combine Columns
- Load Data to Power Query: Go to the Data tab and click From Table/Range to load your data into Power Query.
- Select the Columns: In Power Query, select the two columns you want to merge.
- Combine Columns: Right-click one of the selected columns and choose Merge Columns. You can choose the separator, such as a space, comma, or custom delimiter.
- Close and Load: Once the columns are merged, click Close & Load to return the result to your Excel sheet.
Power Query is a powerful tool for anyone working with complex datasets or requiring data transformations beyond basic Excel functions.
5. Tips for Combining Columns in Excel
Handling Empty Cells: If your data has empty cells, ensure your formula or function accounts for them. For example, TEXTJOIN allows you to ignore empty cells, while the CONCATENATE function doesn’t.
Using Delimiters: When combining columns, consider using delimiters (such as spaces, commas, or dashes) to separate the combined data. This helps keep the merged data organized and readable.
Combining Multiple Columns: If you need to combine more than two columns, simply expand your formula. For example:
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Combining Columns in Excel
Now that you know how to combine two columns in Excel using multiple methods, you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you’re using CONCATENATE, the ampersand (&), TEXTJOIN, or Power Query, combining columns in Excel is a quick and efficient way to streamline your data.
Mastering these techniques will help you improve data organization, reporting, and analysis—making your work in Excel faster and more efficient.