All-time favorite ways to merge cells in Google Sheets

Tired of data loss when merging Google Sheets cells? This guide explores popular methods, from built-in tools to a powerful add-on.

Merging cells enhances spreadsheet organization and presentation. Whether combining text or improving formatting, this guide covers everything from basic techniques to advanced extensions.

Standard Merge Cells: Pros & Cons

Google Sheets' built-in "Merge Cells" tool is a quick solution for basic merging. However, its primary drawback is data loss. Only the upper-left cell's content is retained; others are deleted.

Steps:

1. Select cells to merge.
2. Click the "Merge Cells" icon (or the dropdown arrow) on the toolbar.
3. Choose merge type: "Merge all," "Merge vertically," or "Merge horizontally."

Data-Preserving Alternatives

To avoid data loss, use these functions:

CONCATENATE Function

CONCATENATE(string1, [string2, ...]) combines text strings without data loss. For example, =CONCATENATE(A2," ",C2) joins the contents of cells A2 and C2 with a space.

JOIN Function

JOIN(delimiter, value_or_array1, [value_or_array2, ...]) is more efficient for merging multiple values with a single delimiter. =JOIN(" ",A2:C2) joins cells A2 through C2 with spaces.

Enhanced Merge Cells Add-on

The "Merge Values" add-on offers superior functionality:

• Flexible merging: Combine text from rows, columns, or entire ranges.
• Result placement: Control where merged results appear.
• Actual cell merging: Merge source cells or combine text only.
• Custom delimiters: Use any separator or combination.
• Blank cell handling: Ignore blanks to prevent extra spaces.
• Text wrapping: Wrap long merged values.
• Multiple range support: Merge from non-adjacent ranges.

Merge Values Installation and Usage:

1. Install Merge Values.
2. Open the add-on.
3. Select cells.
4. Configure merge settings.
5. Click "Merge."

Video Tutorial:

Choosing the Right Method:

Select the method best suited to your needs and comfort level with formulas. Merge Values offers the most user-friendly and comprehensive solution.

Practice Spreadsheet:

[Link to practice spreadsheet] (replace with actual link)

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