LEFT

Returns a substring from the beginning of a specified string.

Sample Usage

LEFT(A2,2)

LEFT("lorem ipsum")

Syntax

LEFT(string, [number_of_characters])

  • string - The string from which the left portion will be returned.

  • number_of_characters - [ OPTIONAL - 1 by default ] - The number of characters to return from the left side of string.

Notes

  • 0 is a valid input for number_of_characters and will cause LEFT to return the empty string.

See Also

SUBSTITUTE: Replaces existing text with new text in a string.

SPLIT: Divides text around a specified character or string, and puts each fragment into a separate cell in the row.

RIGHT: Returns a substring from the end of a specified string.

MID: Returns a segment of a string.

Examples

true
Visit the Learning Center

Using Google products, like Google Docs, at work or school? Try powerful tips, tutorials, and templates. Learn to work on Office files without installing Office, create dynamic project plans and team calendars, auto-organize your inbox, and more.

Search
Clear search
Close search
Main menu
16589598744608049927
true
Search Help Center
true
true
true
true
true
35
false
false