Converting text string to number string

I would like to be able to convert any text string into a number string based on the letter's position in the alphabet. The end result I want, for example, is to enter "cab" in the cell and have it return "312." Can someone suggest a formula for me to use? Thanks very much!

It would convert to 242526

Originally Posted by shg

What would "xyz" convert to?

Hi cdworin,

You need to look at two built-in Excel functions. Char() and Code()
The Char(65) = A and the Code(A) = 65

See if these aren't the two functions you need.

Hmmm. Good point. Back to the drawing board. Perhaps automatic insertion of dashes between the numbers.

Originally Posted by shg

How would you distinguish that result from from the result of bdbebf?

I think I see how I could use those functions to change a single letter to a number, but how would I use those two functions to convert a text string to a string of numbers?

Originally Posted by MarvinP

Hi cdworin,

You need to look at two built-in Excel functions. Char() and Code()
The Char(65) = A and the Code(A) = 65

See if these aren't the two functions you need.

Hi,
How about putting each letter in a different cell and then working the formulas?

Marvin,

Thanks for that suggestion. I've been out of commission for the last couple of weeks and that's why this reply is so delayed. While your suggested approach would probably work, it would be too inefficient for the specific use I have in mind.

Originally Posted by MarvinP

Hi,
How about putting each letter in a different cell and then working the formulas?