LEFT Function
LEFT extracts a specified number of characters from the left side of a text string.
Syntax
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| text | The text string from which to extract characters. | Required |
| num_chars | Optional. The number of characters to extract (default is 1). | Optional |
Basic Example
Extract first 3 characters
=LEFT("Hello World", 3)Extracts the first 3 characters from "Hello World".
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Extract area code from phone number
Data cleaningGet the first 3 digits from a phone number
=LEFT(A1, 3)Example 2: Extract first word
Text parsingGet the first word from a sentence
=LEFT(A1, FIND(" ", A1)-1)How LEFT Works
LEFT counts from the beginning of the text string and returns the specified number of characters. If num_chars is omitted, it returns just the first character.
Important Notes & Limitations
LEFT counts each character as 1, including spaces.
Use RIGHT to extract from the end, or MID to extract from the middle.
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE!num_chars is negativeFix: Ensure num_chars is a positive number.
Download Practice File
LEFT
leftPractice LEFT with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the LEFT function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps