Using LEN and LEFT functions together

[iamvicann]

I am trying to figure out how to extract and combine into a new column the first 3 letters of one column, if only 2 characters add a z as the 3rd letter), and the first letter of another column. Using the LEN and LEFT functions only.

I cannot find a reference to this in any of my textbooks. I don't only need the function but would like to somewhat understand it too.

Any help would be appreciated.

[mikerickson]

This sounds like homework, so I'll just give you 2 hints:
1) LEN is not needed. This can be done with LEFT only

2) =LEFT(A1&"zzz",3)

[iamvicann]

It is homework, and if I could get help, heck any reply (online class) from my instructor I would not be using this forum. The instructions state to use both functions. In the book there is NOTHING even simular to this or two other functions we are to use. I am completely lost, and crying in frustration over these 3 functions that we are supposed to use.

Your formula gets the first out of one column, how do I combine the formula to get the second part out of a different column.

[mikerickson]

"these 3 functions that we are supposed to use"
What 3 functions, the OP only mentions LEN and LEFT?

"how do I combine the formula to get the second part out of a different column"
Joining two strings to make a third (joining "ab" and "cde" to make "abcde") is called concatenation. Look in the Help system with the keyword Concatenate

[iamvicann]

I think I am just too stupid to use this forum. The 3 functions are 3 seperate questions.
As for the combining what does it LOOK like
=LEFT(A1&"zzz",3) & =Left(b1,1)
I need the first 3 characters of one column and the first character of a different column.
Plus I am supposed to be using the LEN and LEFT functions.

[mikerickson]

No, you're not stupid. You're un-learned (hence your class). People on this and most other forums think that doing is the best learning, so we try to avoid doing homework for folks. Giving students hints and guiding them to find their own answers is the usual style.

The formula looks good, except for the second =, which needs to be eliminated.

Your teacher probably wants you to construct a formula with IF, LEN, and LEFT

This might be a starting place for that task.
=IF(LEN(A1)<3,1,0)

[iamvicann]

Thank you for your help. I gave up and just used the left function without the LEN, it got the desired result and the assignment was due.