Summary

The Excel T function returns text when given a text value and an empty string ("") for numbers, dates, and the logical values TRUE and FALSE. You can use the T function to remove values that are not text.

Purpose 

Filter text values only

Return value 

Value as text when text

Syntax

=T(value)
  • value - The value to return as text.

How to use 

The Excel T function converts numbers, dates, and the logical values TRUE and FALSE into empty strings.  Text values and errors are not converted and pass through unaffected. You can use the T function to remove values that are not text.

The T function takes one argument, value, which can be a cell reference, a formula result, or a hardcoded value.

Examples

The T function returns text when given a text value and an empty string ("") for numbers, dates, and the logical values TRUE and FALSE. For example:

=T("apple") // returns "apple"
=T("NASA") // returns "NASA"
=T(100) // returns ""
=T(FALSE) // returns ""

In most cases, the T function is unnecessary, because Excel automatically converts values when needed. The T function is provided for compatibility with other spreadsheet programs.

Errors are not affected by the T function:

=T(3/0) // returns #DIV/0!
=T("#N/A") // returns #N/A

Notes

  1. The T function removes numeric values. The N function removes text values.
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Dave Bruns

Hi - I'm Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.