In the last example, we extracted the first name from a cell that contains full names.
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If you decide to change the source data so it’s consistent, don’t forget to update the Flash Fill-you’ll have to run it again.įigure B 3. As you can see, the source data still has an inconsistency, but this time, the results are better than the first example.
To do so, enter Susan in C3 and press Ctrl+E. Let’s suppose you want to extract the first names from the source data in column B in the sheet shown in Figure B.
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SEE: Windows 10 20H2 update: What you need to know (free PDF) (TechRepublic) 2. Now that you know how not to use Flash Fill, let’s continue with some examples of how Flash Fill can help you work more productively. In this case, Flash Fill simply extracts characters from the right to the left, until it encounters the first space-that’s the only pattern it can discern. Flash Fill does its best the problem is the inconsistent data, not Flash Fill. Because the data is inconsistent, the results are inconsistent, as you can see in Figure A. This first example is a good lesson in how Flash Fill works. Occasionally, you’ll need to make two or three entries before Excel catches on.
There are two requirements when using this feature: SEE: 69 Excel tips every user should master (TechRepublic) In this article, I’ll show you 10 ways Flash Fill can make your work just a bit easier by automatically anticipating your fill needs after making an entry or two. Now, you enter the pattern you want and press Ctrl+E-no fuss, no muss. In the past, you might have needed a function or expression to get what you need. It’s a quick way to enter new or clean up existing data. However, you might not realize just how flexible and powerful this tool is. Windows 11: Tips on installation, security and more (free PDF)įlash Fill showed up in Microsoft Excel 2013, so you’re probably already using it. Windows 11 SE: Why it's both more and less locked down than Windows 10 S Windows Server IoT 2022 is for a lot more than Internet of Things Windows 11 cheat sheet: Everything you need to know Image: Aajan, Getty Images/iStockphoto Windows: Must-read coverage When that happens, consider using Flash Fill to save time and aggravation. Source data won't always come in the form you need in Excel. 6 ways to save time using Flash Fill in Microsoft Excel