How to switch first and last name in excel

Answer

To switch first and last names in Excel, several methods depend on the format of your data.

Method 1: Using Text to Columns

1. Select the column containing the full names.

2. Go to the Data tab on the ribbon.

3. Click Text to Columns.

4. Choose Delimited and click Next.

5. Select Space as the delimiter and click Finish.

6. First names will appear in one column, last names in another.

7. Insert a new column where you want the switched names.

8. Use the formula:

   =B1 & " " & A1

   Replace A1 with the first name column and B1 with the last name column.

9. Drag the formula down to apply it to all rows.

Method 2: Using a Formula

1. Assume the full name is in cell A1.

2. Use the formula to switch names:

   =RIGHT(A1,LEN(A1)-FIND(" ",A1)) & " " & LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",A1)-1)

3. Press Enter.

4. Drag the formula down to apply it to the entire column.

Explanation:

• FIND(" ",A1) locates the space between first and last names.

• LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",A1)-1) extracts the first name.

• RIGHT(A1,LEN(A1)-FIND(" ",A1)) extracts the last name.

• & " " combines the names in switched order.

Method 3: Using Flash Fill (Excel 2013 and Later)

1. In a new column, type the first switched name manually (e.g., "Doe John" if the original is "John Doe").

2. Start typing the next switched name in the row below. Excel should suggest the rest of the column.

3. Press Enter to accept the suggestions.

Windows vs Mac Differences

• Windows: Flash Fill is under Data → Flash Fill. Shortcut: Ctrl + E.

• Mac: Flash Fill is under Data → Flash Fill. Shortcut: Command + E.

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