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VALUE.

Converts a text string that represents a number into a numeric value.

SyntaxArgumentsExampleInteractive SandboxGeneratorCompatibilityFAQRelatedCheat Sheet
Category: Text & Manipulation
ExcelExcel 365Excel 2021Excel 2019Google Sheets

How it works.

VALUE parses text strings formatted as numbers, currency ($), or percentages (%) and converts them into real Excel numbers that formulas can sum, average, or calculate.

Formula syntax.

Standard Excel Notation
=VALUE(text)
Tip:Arguments wrapped in square brackets [like_this] are optional; all other arguments are required.

Formula arguments.

Every parameter accepted by the VALUE function is detailed below.

textRequired

The text string to convert to a number.

Example value: A2

Simple example.

Step-by-Step Scenario

Import Cleanup - Text to Number

Convert raw imported currency string "$1,250" to numeric 1250.

Raw StringNumeric Value
$1,250—
$4,500—
Applied Formula
=VALUE(A2)
Expected Result:1250

Evaluates VALUE over the sample table cells, placing the verified output in cell B2.

Formula generator.

Full Generator Wizard

Customize the argument fields below to generate a tailored VALUE formula ready to paste directly into your worksheet.

Generated FormulaReady to copy
=VALUE()

Expected result behavior.

Returns number 1250 based on sample evaluation criteria and active cell references.

Sample Output:1250
Output Type:Numeric (Double/Integer)

Best Practices

  • Quickly convert imported text numbers into true mathematical values.

Common Mistakes

  • If the text cannot be recognized as a valid number, date, or time, VALUE returns #VALUE!.
Compatibility Database

Platform & version compatibility.

Verified platform compatibility matrix based on actual spreadsheet calculation engine specifications.

Excel✓
Supported
Excel 365✓
Supported
Excel 2021✓
Supported
Excel 2019✓
Supported
Google Sheets✓
Supported
Microsoft Excel History & Version Availability

Core standard function supported across all modern and legacy Microsoft Excel versions (365, 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010), as well as Excel for the Web and Mac.

Google Sheets Compatibility Notes

100% compatible with Google Sheets. Uses identical argument order, data types, and standard calculation logic.

Frequently asked questions.

Technical Q&A
Can I use VALUE across different worksheets in Excel?↓

Yes. You can reference cells located on other sheets by including the sheet name followed by an exclamation mark, for example: =VALUE(Sheet2!A2:A10). If the sheet name contains spaces, enclose it in single quotes: ='Q1 Report'!A2:A10.

What is the most common reason for errors in VALUE?↓

If the text cannot be recognized as a valid number, date, or time, VALUE returns #VALUE!.

Does VALUE work identically in Google Sheets?↓

Yes, VALUE is supported in both Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets with standard evaluation behavior.