The Problem
You have first names in column A and last names in column B. You need to combine them into full names in column C.
The Easy Way: Use SheetXAI
If you don't want to mess with formulas, the fastest way to do this is simply by asking.
With SheetXAI, you can open the sidebar and type:
Combine the first name in A2 with the last name in B2 to create a full name.
SheetXAI will instantly write the formula or script for you and fill the cells. It handles the syntax so you can focus on the result.
The Manual Way: The Formulas You Need
To do this manually, you need to use: CONCATENATE or & operator.
1. CONCATENATE
Joins two or more text strings into one text string.
Syntax: =CONCATENATE(text1, [text2], ...)
- text1: The first text string to join.
- [text2]: Additional text strings to join (optional, can add many).
Example: Combine 'John' and 'Doe' to get 'JohnDoe'.
2. & operator
A simpler alternative to CONCATENATE that uses the ampersand (&) symbol to join text.
Syntax: =text1 & text2 & text3
- text1: The first text string.
- text2: The second text string.
Example: Use A2 & " " & B2 to combine with a space: 'John Doe'.
Understanding the Logic
- CONCATENATE method: Use the function to join text:
=CONCATENATE(A2, B2) - & operator method: Use ampersand for simpler syntax:
=A2 & B2 - Add spaces: Include a space character:
=A2 & " " & B2to get 'John Doe' instead of 'JohnDoe'.
Both methods work the same way - CONCATENATE is more explicit, while & is shorter and easier to read.
The Final Formula:
=CONCATENATE(A2, " ", B2)
Conclusion
Now you know the "classic" way to solve this using formulas. It's a great skill to have.
But for those times when you just want the job done without the mental math, SheetXAI is there to help.
Related Guides
- How to Combine Names in Excel - Combine first and last names
- TEXT Function in Excel - Format numbers and dates as text
- Excel AI Guide - Learn how AI can automate your Excel workflows
- AI Spreadsheet Tools - Discover how AI transforms spreadsheet work
