Switch First and Last Name in Excel

Using Flash Fill

To quickly switch first and last names in Excel, use the Flash Fill feature. Flash Fill identifies patterns after you type one or two examples of the desired output. To activate Flash Fill, press Control + E or select the Fill option in the Editing group on the Home tab.

Excel Formulas

Formulas with text functions can switch names. Use =RIGHT([@[Full Name]],LEN([@[Full Name]]) - (SEARCH(",",[@[Full Name]],1) + 1)) & " " & LEFT([@[Full Name]],SEARCH(",",[@[Full Name]],1) -1) to reverse names with a comma separator. This formula uses RIGHT, LEFT, SEARCH, and LEN functions and is suitable for an Excel table.

Using CONCAT and & Operator

Switch names using the CONCAT function or the & operator. In the CONCAT function, use the TRIM function to eliminate extra spaces. If CONCAT is unavailable, use CONCATENATE or the & operator, which is supported in all Excel versions.

Text to Columns Feature

Excel's Text to Columns feature can split and then combine first and last names into the desired order. This method is useful for separating names into different columns before swapping them.

Power Query Method

Use Power Query to switch names if you frequently perform this task. Power Query handles data transformation efficiently. However, for one-time changes, simpler methods like Flash Fill or formulas are recommended.

VBA Method

For advanced users, VBA can automate the process of switching first and last names. This is a powerful option for those comfortable with Excel's programming environment.

Common Use Cases

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  Correcting the order of names in a mailing list
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  Preparing a list of names for a name badge printing service
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  Standardizing employee records for a human resources database
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  Organizing a contact list alphabetically by last name
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  Facilitating the proper sorting and searching of client information in a CRM system

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