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How to split cells in Excel – our guide to splitting a cell horizontally

Here are two easy methods!
Last Updated on July 15, 2024
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If you want to know how to split cells in Excel, you’ve landed on the right page.

Excel is a program that offers a great deal of power to users – providing, of course, if you know how to get the best out of it. Knowing how to split a cell is one of the essential tasks, and there are a few methods available to users, which we will explore in greater detail here.

So, without any further ado, let’s go through how to split a cell horizontally in Excel.

Scenario at hand: For this article, we are going to split the first and last names into two different columns. We will be using two different methods to split one cell into two in Excel, and both of them are pretty simple.

1

How to split cells using the Text to Columns feature

Here’s how you can use the Text to Colum feature to split cells in Excel.

Step

1

Select the range of cells

Select the cells you want to split. In this scenario, we will select all the names.

How to split cells in excel and create a spreadsheet.

Step

2

Click on the Text to Column button

Next, go to the Data tab and click on Text to Column button.

Learn how to create a spreadsheet in Excel and easily split cells.

Step

3

Select Delimited

In the Window that will pop up on  your screen, select the “Delimited” option and click Next.

Learn how to split cells in Microsoft Excel to create a well-organized data table.

Step

4

Select the type of Delimiter

Now you’ll have to choose the type of delimiter in your data. In our case, the first and last name are separated by a space, so we’ll select space.

A screen demonstrating how to split cells in Microsoft Excel.

Step

5

Enter the destination cell

Once done, click Next, enter the destination cell for the data, and click Finish. The first and last names will be split into two different cells.

A screen shot of a spreadsheet in excel featuring split cells.

2

How to split cells using the Flash Fill feature

You can also use the Flash Fill feature to quickly split cells in Excel.

Step

1

Enter the first name and drag it to every cell

The first thing you need to do is enter the first name in an adjacent cell and then drag it to the bottom cells. In this case, we will type Mark and drag it down.

A screenshot of a spreadsheet in Excel showcasing split cells.

Step

2

Select Flash Fill

Next, with all the cells with the first name selected, click on the auto fill options icon and select Flash Fill. This will automatically fill the first names in every adjacent cell.

Learn how to split cells in Excel to create a spreadsheet.

Repeat the same process for the last names column.

Final thoughts

Splitting cells in Excel is a fast, simple process, and one that allows you to use sheets and manage information more effectively and efficiently – and now you know exactly how to do it! Both methods work flawlessly, and they can help you split the cells within seconds.

Learn more about Excel and its features through these in-depth guides:

Andrew is one of three co-founders of BGFG, the parent company of PC Guide. A keen gamer and PC enthusiast, Andrew dabbles in a bit of writing sometimes - when he gets the chance to!