Are you tired of spending endless hours trying to extract specific characters from a string in Google Sheets? Well, worry no more! In this article, I’ll be sharing with you the secrets of the LEFT and RIGHT functions, and also introducing you to an alternative method using REGEXEXTRACT. So, grab your favorite beverage and get ready to become a Google Sheets pro!
The Enigma of the LEFT Function
Let’s crack the code of the LEFT function, which allows you to extract a specific number of characters from the left side of a string. The syntax is as simple as it gets:
LEFT(string, [number_of_characters])
For example, let’s say we have the string “INFO INSPIRED” and we want to extract the first four characters. Voila! We can use this formula:
=LEFT("INFO INSPIRED", 4)
And just like that, the result will be “INFO”. It’s as easy as pie!
Decoding the RIGHT Function
Now, let’s unravel the secrets of the RIGHT function, which extracts a specific number of characters from the right side of a string. The syntax is quite similar to the LEFT function:
RIGHT(string, [number_of_characters])
Suppose we want to extract the last eight characters from the string “INFO INSPIRED”. Abracadabra! We can use this formula:
=RIGHT("INFO INSPIRED", 8)
Magically, we get “INSPIRED”. It’s like waving a wand!
MID Function: The Hidden Gem
Looking for an alternative to the LEFT and RIGHT functions? Look no further than the MID function. This versatile function can achieve the same results. Let me demonstrate:
To extract the word “INFO” from the string “INFO INSPIRED”, we can use this MID formula:
=MID("INFO INSPIRED", 1, 4)
Similarly, to extract the word “INSPIRED” from the same string, we can use:
=MID("INFO INSPIRED", 6, 8)
With the MID function, you have more options to manipulate your data like a true magician!
The Magic of REGEXEXTRACT
Now, brace yourself for something intriguing. Instead of using the LEFT and RIGHT functions, you can unleash the power of REGEXEXTRACT to achieve the same results. Let me show you how the magic works:
To extract the first four characters from the string “INFO INSPIRED”, you can use this mesmerizing REGEXEXTRACT formula:
=REGEXEXTRACT("INFO INSPIRED", "....")
And voila! Just like waving a magic wand, you get “INFO”!
Now, let’s say you want to extract the last eight characters. No problem! Simply use this enchanting REGEXEXTRACT formula:
=REGEXEXTRACT("INFO INSPIRED", "(........z)")
And boom! In all its glory, you get “INSPIRED”!
Practical Wizardry with LEFT and RIGHT Functions
To demonstrate the practical use of the LEFT and RIGHT functions, let’s dive into a real-life example.
Imagine you have a list of drawing numbers and you want to find the unique drawings based on the first six characters. Fear not, because the LEFT function is here to save the day!
Using the following formula:
=ArrayFormula(countunique(left(A1:A6, 6)))
You’ll get the desired result, showing the number of unique drawings based on the first six characters. It’s like having a superpower!
So there you have it, my friends! The secrets of the LEFT and RIGHT functions, along with an alternative method using REGEXEXTRACT, have been unveiled. Say goodbye to tedious data extraction and hello to efficiency and accuracy in Google Sheets!
For more informative and enchanting articles, visit Crawlan.com. Happy sheeting!
