forumla help

**SpiritedAway** · 05-15-2013, 09:25 AM

This is probably straightforward but I'm blocked.

In column A is where users input data i.e in A1 someone might choose H40 cip vessel external from a dropdown list
in column B is a formula =LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",A1)-1) that populates B1 with H40

I want to past this formula in Column B so that every time someone populates a cell in Column A the first bit of text populates the cell in column B.

I want the formula Column B to look like this.

=LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",B1)-1)
=LEFT(A2,FIND(" ",B2)-1)
=LEFT(A3,FIND(" ",A3)-1)
etc.....

Can anyone tell me how to do this?

Any help would be great.

**Tony Valko** · 05-15-2013, 09:32 AM

Enter this formula in cell B1:

=LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",A1)-1)

With cell B1 selected, look at the bottom right side of the cell selector and it will look like a little black square.

"Grab" that little black square with your left mouse button and drag down the column as needed.

**martindwilson** · 05-15-2013, 09:34 AM

Attach a sample workbook. Make sure there is just enough data to make it clear what is needed. Include BEFORE/AFTER sheets if needed to show the process you're trying to complete or automate. Remember to desensitize the data.

Click on GO ADVANCED and use the paperclip icon to open the upload window.

View Pic

**ragavan.sridar1** · 05-15-2013, 09:36 AM

just copy the formula and paste...

**Tony Valko** · 05-15-2013, 09:47 AM

Or, you can simply double click that little black square. It's called the fill handle.

Double clicking will copy the formula down the column until it reaches an empty cell in column A.

**SpiritedAway** · 05-15-2013, 09:50 AM

Brilliant! Thanks very much - really appreciate your help.

**arlu1201** · 05-15-2013, 09:53 AM

SpiritedAway,

Please take a moment to read the forum rules and then amend your thread title to something descriptive of your problem. Once you have done this please send me a PM and I will remove this request.

To change a Title on your post, click EDIT then Go Advanced and change your title, if 2 days have passed ask a moderator to do it for you.