Combine first and last names efficiently in Excel using one of these reliable methods:
Method 1: Using CONCAT or CONCATENATE
This method works well for simple combinations.
- Assume first names are in column A, last names in column B.
- Enter this formula in C2: =CONCAT(A2, " ", B2)
- Press Enter and drag the fill handle down to copy the formula.
Note: CONCAT is newer; CONCATENATE(A2, " ", B2) also works in older versions.
Method 2: Using the TEXTJOIN Function (Ideal for Handling Empty Cells)
TEXTJOIN is powerful and ignores empty cells.
- Enter this formula in C2: =TEXTJOIN(" ", TRUE, A2, B2)
- Press Enter and drag the fill handle down.
Explanation: The space (" ") is the delimiter, TRUE tells Excel to ignore empty cells, and A2/B2 are the cells to join.
Method 3: Using Flash Fill (Quick & No Formulas)
Let Excel learn your pattern automatically.
- Type the full name manually in C2 next to your first row of data (e.g., type "John Doe" if A2 is John, B2 is Doe).
- Press Enter and start typing the full name for the next row in C3.
- As you type, Excel displays a preview of the filled column. Press Enter to accept.
Alternative: After typing the first full name in C2, select C2, go to the Data tab, and click Flash Fill, or press Ctrl + E.
Key Tips
- Include a Space: Always add the space delimiter (" ") between the cells to avoid combined names like "JohnDoe".
- Use TEXTJOIN for Flexibility: It’s the most robust option, especially if some first or last names might be missing in your data.
- Flash Fill Speed: Flash Fill is incredibly fast for one-time tasks on contiguous data.
