Note: these is an experimental formula that uses a hard coded array constant, set down here for reference and comment. Casually tested only, so take care if you use or adapt. To split a number from a unit value, you need to determine the position of the last number. If you add 1 to that position, you have the start of the unit text. This formula uses this concept to figure out where the unit of measure begins. In the example shown, the formula in C5 is: This formula uses the MID function to extract the first 9 values in B5, one character at a time. The result is an array like this: We then use the VALUE function to convert numbers in text format to actual numbers. The result is: We run this array through ISNUMBER to get: Then multiply that times another array with 9 numbers to get: Then we use MAX to get the largest value, which is the position of the “last number”. Finally, we add 1 to the position to get the “unit start” position. Finally, we use this position with standard LEFT and RIGHT functions to separate the numbers from the units: Note that the hard-coded number array constant is a hack for convenience, and will only handle raw values up to 9 characters in length.
Dave Bruns
Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.
