Quick Answer
LEN Function
LEN counts the number of characters in a text string.
✓ Excel✓ Google SheetsExcel All versions
Syntax
LEN
(text)
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| text | The text string whose length you want to find. | Required |
Basic Example
Count characters in a string
=LEN("Hello")Result5
Returns the number of characters in "Hello".
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Check password length
ValidationVerify if a password meets minimum length requirements
=IF(LEN(A1)>=8, "Strong", "Too short")Result: Strong
Checks if the password has at least 8 characters.
Example 2: Count characters excluding spaces
Text analysisCount characters in a string without spaces
=LEN(SUBSTITUTE(A1, " ", ""))Result: 10
Removes all spaces before counting characters.
How LEN Works
LEN counts every character in the text string, including spaces, punctuation, and special characters.
1
Select output cell
Choose where the result should appear.
2
Enter formula
Type =LEN(text).
3
Press Enter
The result shows the character count.
Important Notes & Limitations
LEN counts each character as 1, including spaces and special characters.
For double-byte languages (like Chinese), use LENB instead.
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE!Invalid argumentFix: Ensure the argument is text or a cell reference.
Download Practice File
LEN
lenPractice LEN with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the LEN function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LEN count spaces?
Yes, LEN counts every character including spaces.
What is the difference between LEN and LENB?
LEN counts characters, LENB counts bytes. For double-byte characters, LENB counts 2 bytes per character.