If you’re tired of using inefficient methods to join columns in Google Sheets, you’re in for a treat! In this guide, I’ll share with you two flexible array formulas that will revolutionize the way you combine columns in Google Sheets. Get ready to save time and effort!
Join Columns Using Join, Textjoin, and Concatenate Functions
Let’s start with the traditional methods that many of us rely on – the Join, Textjoin, and Concatenate functions. While these formulas work for combining first and last names in two columns, they don’t support arrays in the way we need them to.
For example, the Join and Concatenate functions require physical columns to work. This means that if we have an array returned by a Filter formula, we need to extract each column before joining them. Not very efficient, right?
But don’t worry, I have a simple and elegant solution for you using the Query formula that works with both physical and virtual columns. Let’s dive in!
The Ultimate Solution: Flexible Array Formula to Join Columns in Google Sheets – QUERY
The QUERY formula is incredibly powerful and versatile. It allows us to join columns effortlessly, without the need for extra steps or modifications. Here’s how it works:
=transpose(query(transpose(A2:B11),,COLUMNS(A2:B11)))With this formula, you can join columns in moments, no matter how many columns you have. And the best part? Even if you insert a new column or use expressions (virtual columns), the formula will automatically adapt to the changes.
But wait, there’s more! If you want to filter specific data before joining, simply replace the range A2:B11 with your filter formula. It’s that simple!
The Alternative: Flexible Array Formula to Join Columns in Google Sheets – BYROW
If you’re looking for an alternative to the QUERY formula, I’ve got you covered. Meet BYROW, one of the Lambda helper functions that can expand the result of text functions. Here’s how you can use it:
=byrow(A2:B11,lambda(r,textjoin(" ",true,r)))This formula is ideal if you prefer using the Textjoin function, as it can omit blank cells. It’s a great option for those who want more control over the joining process.
And there you have it – two amazing array formulas that will revolutionize the way you join columns in Google Sheets. Say goodbye to tedious manual work and hello to efficiency and flexibility!
To learn more tips and tricks for Google Sheets, visit Crawlan.com – your go-to source for all things Google Sheets. Happy joining!
