Function reference

VALUE in Excel & Google Sheets

VALUE 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 VALUE formula →

When to use VALUE

Fix imported spreadsheet data where amounts, quantities, or IDs are left-aligned and treated as text, silently excluded from calculations.

Worked examples (1)

Data Cleaningbeginner

Convert text to numbers with VALUE

=VALUE(TRIM(A2))

Open formula VALUE reference

Common errors with VALUE

VALUE returns

The cell contains characters that cannot be parsed as a number — commas, currency symbols, or letters. Remove them with SUBSTITUTE before applying VALUE.

Result is still treated as text

After using VALUE, ensure the result cell is formatted as Number, not Text. A cell format of Text overrides formula results.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a faster way to convert a whole column?

Select the column, go to Data > Text to Columns > Finish — this converts the selection in place without a helper column. VALUE is better for formula-driven pipelines.

Need a custom variation?

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

Open generator with VALUE