Google Sheets: Mastering the CODE Function

Do you want to unlock the hidden power of Google Sheets? Look no further! In this article, I’ll reveal the secrets of the CODE function, a powerful tool that can help you manipulate and analyze text like a pro.

Unleashing the Power of the CODE Function

The CODE function in Google Sheets is a hidden gem that returns the Unicode code point value of a character. This function provides a numeric output, making it perfect for various applications. Whether you want to determine the value of a specific character or decode character conversions, the CODE function has got you covered.

Understanding the CODE Function

If you use a single character in the CODE function, it will return the Unicode value of that character. However, if you use a text string instead, the function will only consider the first character. This is important to keep in mind when working with multiple characters.

To illustrate, let’s consider the following example:

=CODE("Ω") // returns 937

In this case, the CODE function returns the Unicode value of the Omega character. On the other hand, the CHAR function can be used to retrieve the character itself:

=CHAR(937) // returns "Ω"

The power of the CODE function becomes evident when you need to work with complex passwords or manipulate text based on specific criteria. By combining the CODE and CHAR functions, you can create dynamic and versatile formulas.

Syntax and Argument

To use the CODE function in Google Sheets, you need to provide a string as the argument. The function will then return the code of the first character in that string. Here’s the syntax:

CODE(string)

Decoding Character Conversions: Comparing CODE and CHAR

Now, let’s dive deeper into the relationship between the CODE and CHAR functions. By understanding their differences, you can harness their combined power to your advantage.

Example #1:

Consider the following formula:

=CODE("APPLE") // returns 65

In this case, the CODE function returns the numerical Unicode code point of the first character, which is “A”. Similarly, the formula below also returns 65 for the character “A”:

=CODE("A") // returns 65

On the other hand, the CHAR function can be used to retrieve the character itself:

=CHAR(65) // returns "A"

Practical Use of the CODE Function in Google Sheets

The CODE function can be a game-changer when it comes to manipulating text in a clever way. For instance, it can be used to convert a case-insensitive formula into a case-sensitive one. This technique can come in handy when dealing with sensitive data or complex sorting algorithms.

To see the CODE function in action, check out my case-sensitive VLOOKUP formula that utilizes this powerful tool. It’s a simple yet effective way to make your formulas more robust and accurate.

Unlocking the Secrets of Unicode Characters

In addition to its core capabilities, the CODE function can also help you explore the vast world of Unicode characters. By using the CODE function alongside a comprehensive Unicode character map, you can effortlessly reference and manipulate various symbols and characters.

To get started, refer to this wiki page where you’ll find a wealth of Unicode characters and their corresponding code values. Simply use the CHAR function with the desired code to retrieve the character.

Empower Your Spreadsheets with Crawlan

Now that you’ve uncovered the hidden power of the CODE function, it’s time to take your Google Sheets skills to the next level. Visit Crawlan for more expert tips, tutorials, and resources that will transform the way you work with data.

Remember, knowledge is power, and Crawlan is here to empower you!

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