Function reference

PROPER in Excel & Google Sheets

PROPER is used in 1 formula pattern in this library. Browse worked examples below, or use the generator to build a custom variation for your specific data.

1 beginnerBuild a custom PROPER formula →

When to use PROPER

Fix imported customer name data where all values are uppercase, all lowercase, or inconsistently cased.

Worked examples (1)

Text Manipulationbeginner

Convert text to proper case with PROPER

=PROPER(A2)

Open formula PROPER reference

Common errors with PROPER

Apostrophes cause extra capitalisation

PROPER capitalises the letter after an apostrophe, turning "o'brien" into "O'Brien". This is usually correct but watch for names like "McDonald" becoming "Mcdonald".

Acronyms are lowercased

PROPER lowercases all letters except the first of each word, so "NASA" becomes "Nasa". Correct these cases with SUBSTITUTE after PROPER.

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert text to ALL CAPS instead?

Use UPPER(A2) to convert to all uppercase, or LOWER(A2) for all lowercase.

Need a custom variation?

Describe your specific PROPER problem and get a formula written for your exact data.

Open generator with PROPER