5 Simple Methods to Change Name Format in Excel

Changing the format of names in Excel, such as switching between "First Last" to "Last, First" or converting text to proper case, can be done quickly with Excel’s built-in functions and tools. Here's how to do it:

Method 1: Using Formulas to Rearrange Names

If your names are in "First Last" format and you want to switch to "Last, First," you can use formulas to rearrange them.

Steps:

1. Identify the Columns:

   • Ensure the first and last names are in separate columns (e.g., Column A for First Name and Column B for Last Name).

2. Insert a New Column:

   • Add a new column where you want the formatted names to appear.

3. Use the Formula:

   • In the first cell of the new column, type:

     =B1 & ", " & A1
     

     • Replace B1 with the cell containing the last name.
     • Replace A1 with the cell containing the first name.

   

4. Press Enter:

   • The formula will rearrange the names to "Last, First."

5. Copy the Formula Down:

   • Drag the fill handle down to apply the formula to the rest of the rows.

Method 2: Changing Case (Proper Case, Uppercase, or Lowercase)

Excel provides functions to change the case of text, such as converting all names to proper case (e.g., "John Doe") or uppercase (e.g., "JOHN DOE").

Steps:

1. Insert a New Column:

   • Add a new column for the formatted names.

2. Use the Appropriate Function:

   • Proper Case: Converts text to "First Last" format.

     =PROPER(A1)
     

   • Uppercase: Converts text to "FIRST LAST" format.

     =UPPER(A1)
     

   • Lowercase: Converts text to "first last" format.

     =LOWER(A1)
     

   

3. Press Enter:

   • The formula will change the case of the name in the cell.

4. Copy the Formula Down:

   • Drag the fill handle down to apply the formula to the rest of the rows.

Method 3: Splitting Full Names into First and Last Names

If you have full names in a single column and need to split them into first and last names, use the Text to Columns feature.

Steps:

1. Select the Column with Full Names:
   • Highlight the column containing the full names.
2. Go to Text to Columns:
   • Navigate to Data > Text to Columns.
3. Choose Delimited:
   • Select Delimited and click Next.
4. Select the Space Delimiter:
   • Check the box for Space and click Next.
5. Choose Destination:
   • Select the columns where you want the first and last names to appear.
6. Click Finish:
   • Excel will split the names into separate columns.

Method 4: Using Flash Fill

Flash Fill is a quick way to reformat names without formulas.

Steps:

1. Type the Desired Format:
   • In a new column, type the name in the format you want (e.g., "Doe, John").
2. Activate Flash Fill:
   • Select the next cell in the column.
   • Go to Data > Flash Fill, or press Ctrl + E.
3. Excel Fills the Column:
   • Excel will automatically reformat the names for the remaining rows.

Method 5: Using CertFusion’s Name Formatter

If you’re looking for an online tool to reformat names effortlessly, CertFusion’s Name Normalizer is a great option.

Steps:

1. Access the Tool:
   • Visit CertFusion Name Normalizer.
2. Upload Your Excel File:
   • Upload the file containing the names you want to reformat.
3. Choose the Desired Format:
   • Select options like "Last, First," "First Last," or other custom formats.
4. Download the Result:
   • Once formatted, download the processed file and open it in Excel.

Tips:

• Backup Your Data: Always save a copy of your data before applying changes.
• Use Shortcuts: Flash Fill is the fastest method for small datasets.
• Combine Methods: Use Text to Columns for splitting names, followed by formulas for formatting.

With these methods, including the CertFusion tool, you can easily change name formats in Excel to meet your needs! 🚀