How do you split cells in Google Sheets?

By SpreadCheaters
Page last updated: 19/04/2023 | Next review date: 19/04/2025
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Splitting cells in Google Sheets is the process of separating the content of a single cell into multiple cells, based on a specified delimiter such as a comma or a space. This is particularly useful when dealing with data that needs to be sorted, filtered, or analyzed separately. It helps to organize and process large amounts of data more efficiently.

In this tutorial, we will learn how do you split cells in Google Sheets. There are several ways to split cells in Google Sheets, depending on the desired outcome. One method involves using the “Split text to columns” feature or we can use the built-in SPLIT function.

Method 1: Use the “Split text to columns”

Step 1 – Copy, Paste the Cells into Another Column

  • Copy and paste the cells into another column where you want to split the cells. So, that original data remains intact.

Step 2 – Select the Range of Cells

  • Select the range of cells containing the cells to be split.

Step 3 – Locate and Click on the Data Tab

  • Locate and click on the Data tab in the menu bar.
  • A drop-down menu will appear.

Step 4 – Click on the “Split text to columns” Option

  • Click on the “Split text to columns” option in the drop-down menu.
  • The delimiter will be automatically detected and the cells will be split. 
  • The delimiter can also be changed in the pop-up box that appears.

Method 2: Use the SPLIT Function

Google Sheets also provide a special function to perform the same thing if you prefer to use functions instead of built-in tools. Follow along the steps below if you want to split text using SPLIT function.

Step 1 – Select a Blank Cell and Place an Equals Sign

  • Select a blank cell where you want to place the split text.
  • Place an Equals sign in the blank cell.

Step 2 – Enter the SPLIT Function

  • Enter the SPLIT function next to the equals sign.
  • The syntax of the SPLIT function will be: 

                                SPLIT(A2 , “ , ” )

Where the first argument i.e. A2 is the address of the cell containing the text to be split.

The second argument “,“  is the delimiter that is being used in the data. Choose this correctly, otherwise, you will get incorrect results.

Step 3 – Press the Enter Key

  • Press the Enter key to split the text.

Step 4 – Use the Autofill to Apply the SPLIT Function on Each Row

  • Use the Autofill feature to apply the SPLIT function on each row.