Excel VALUE Function
VALUE converts text that looks like a number into a real numeric value.
Use it when imported data, extracted text, or joined strings contain numbers that need to work in math, comparisons, lookups, or charts.
VALUE syntax & arguments
Syntax
=VALUE(text)
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1
text
RequiredThe text value, cell reference, or formula result that should be converted into a number.
Example
=VALUE(A2)
Convert the number stored as text in A2 into a numeric value.
VALUE caveats
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Unrecognized text returns an error
If Excel cannot parse the text as a number, date, or time, VALUE returns a
#VALUE!error. -
Regional separators matter
Text with commas, periods, dates, or currency symbols must match the number formats Excel understands for that workbook locale.
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Dates become serial numbers
When VALUE parses date-like text, the result is Excel's underlying date serial number and can be formatted as a date.
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It does the opposite of TEXT
TEXT turns values into formatted text. VALUE turns recognizable numeric text back into a value.
Checking conversion results? Use ISNUMBER when a later formula needs to confirm that the converted value is numeric.
Intro VALUE practice problem
Solve the intro problem directly here, or open it on its own page.
Advanced VALUE practice problem
Use VALUE alongside other Excel functions in realistic, less-prescriptive challenges.
