MS Excel: VALUE function to convert text to numbers
- Fakhriddinbek
- May 3
- 2 min read
The VALUE function in Excel converts text representations of numbers into actual numeric values. This function is especially helpful when numbers are stored as text and you need to perform mathematical operations on them—like sums, averages, or comparisons.
Even though Excel often handles text-to-number conversion automatically, the VALUE function ensures full control and avoids calculation errors when working with imported data, user entries, or CSV files.
Syntax
=VALUE(text)
Parameters:
Argument | Description |
text | Required. The text string that looks like a number. |
Returns: A numeric value (integer, decimal, or date-time) corresponding to the given text.
Examples
A (Text) | Formula | Result | Description |
"100" | =VALUE(A2) | 100 | Simple numeric string |
"12.34" | =VALUE(A3) | 12.34 | Decimal value |
" 200 " | =VALUE(A4) | 200 | Handles spaces |
"3/15/2025" | =VALUE(A5) | 45046 | Converts date text to Excel serial date |
"05:30" | =VALUE(A6) | 0.22917 | Time converted to Excel decimal format |
Common Use Cases
Scenario | How VALUE Helps |
Imported numbers as text | Converts to true numbers for calculation |
Data cleansing | Standardizes input from inconsistent formats |
Working with time/date text | Transforms to usable datetime values |
Formulas that expect numeric input | Prevents #VALUE! errors |
Notes
If the text is not a recognizable number, VALUE will return a #VALUE! error.
You can often use --A1 (double unary operator) or A1*1 as an alternative for conversion, but VALUE is clearer and safer for readability.
Related Functions
Function | Description |
TEXT | Converts numbers into formatted text |
NUMBERVALUE | Converts text to numbers with locale awareness |
ISTEXT | Checks if a value is text |
ISNUMBER | Checks if a value is a number |
Summary
Feature | Description |
Function Name | VALUE |
Purpose | Convert number-formatted text to numbers |
Returns | Numeric values (including dates and times) |
Use Cases | Cleaning up imported or user-entered data |
Excel Version | All versions |
Final Thoughts
The VALUE function is a quiet powerhouse for data preparation. When dealing with inconsistent formats, especially from external sources, VALUE ensures your numeric logic flows smoothly. Whether you’re building financial models, time calculators, or clean datasets, this function is a must-know for any Excel user.
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