Excel: How to Parse Data (split column into multiple)

In Excel (2016, 2013, 2010) it's possible to parse data from one column into two or more columns. And you can do it in a few simple steps. Suppose column A contains "Last Name, First Name". Follow these steps to split the data from column A into a "Last Name" column and a "First Name" column. No cutting and pasting necessary!

Open the Excel spreadsheet containing the data you want to split, then:

1. Highlight the column that contains the combined data (e.g., Last Name, First Name) by clicking the letter directly above the column.
2. Click the “Data” tab in the ribbon, then look in the "Data Tools" group and click "Text to Columns." The "Convert Text to Columns Wizard" will appear.
3. In step 1 of the wizard, choose “Delimited” > Click [Next].
4. A delimiter is the symbol or space which separates the data you wish to split. For example, if your column reads “Smith, John” you would select “Comma” as your delimiter. Select the delimiter within your data.
5. Check the box next to "Treat consecutive delimiters as one."
6. Click [Next].
7. Under "Column data format," choose "General."
8. Click the red arrow/spreadsheet icon at the far right of the "Destination" text box.
9. Highlight the columns you wish to contain the split data by clicking the letters directly above the columns (you can choose columns from anywhere within the spreadsheet). Or, manually click and drag to select the sells you wish to contain the split data.
10. Click the red arrow/spreadsheet icon once more to return to the wizard.
11. Click [Finish].

Keywords:  split columns, parse data, split cell, separate information