LEFT Function: syntax, examples, mistakes and translation notes
Returns characters from the start of text.
Syntax
=LEFT(text, [num_chars])
Arguments
text
Text to extract from.
num_chars
Optional number of characters from the left; defaults to 1.
Worked examples
=LEFT("CellLingo",4)
Returns “Cell”.
=LEFT(A2,FIND("-",A2)-1)
Returns text before the first hyphen when one exists.
Practical tips
- Combine with FIND/SEARCH when the cut position depends on a delimiter.
- Validate num_chars when it is calculated from another function.
- For structured splitting, newer TEXTBEFORE may be clearer when available.
Common mistakes
- Assuming LEFT understands words or delimiters by itself.
- Forgetting that missing delimiters can make a FIND-based length expression error.
Related functions
Frequently asked questions
What does LEFT do?
Returns characters from the start of text.
Why might a LEFT formula return an unexpected result?
Assuming LEFT understands words or delimiters by itself. Start by testing the smallest referenced range or condition independently before adding wrappers or fallbacks.
Check the complete formula
Function syntax is only one part of a working workbook. Paste the finished expression into the Formula Checker for structural warnings, the Formatter for readability or the Translator when a supported locale mapping is involved.
Testing note: examples are educational. Spreadsheet versions, locale settings, tables, named ranges and workbook data can change behavior, so validate important formulas with representative data.