10 Easy Ways To Convert Excel Month Names To Numbers

Converting month names to numbers in Excel can be a lifesaver when it comes to data analysis and reporting. Whether you're creating charts, calculating time differences, or simply organizing your data, having month names as numbers makes everything more manageable. If you've ever found yourself struggling to convert “January” into “1” or “December” into “12,” you’re in the right place! Here are 10 easy ways to convert Excel month names to numbers.

1. Using the MONTH Function

The most straightforward method to convert month names to numbers is by using the MONTH function along with DATE. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Write the month name in cell A1 (e.g., January).
• Step 2: Use the formula =MONTH(DATE(2021, A1 & " 1", 1)).

This will return 1 for January, 2 for February, and so on.

2. Using the CHOOSE Function

If you prefer to avoid complex functions, the CHOOSE function can help:

• Step 1: In cell A1, enter the month name (e.g., March).
• Step 2: Enter this formula in cell B1: =CHOOSE(MATCH(A1, {"January", "February", "March", "April", "May", "June", "July", "August", "September", "October", "November", "December"}, 0), 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12).

This matches the month name to its respective number.

3. Using a Lookup Table

Creating a lookup table can also simplify the process.

• Step 1: Create a two-column table somewhere in your sheet:

• Step 2: Use a VLOOKUP formula like this: =VLOOKUP(A1, D1:E12, 2, FALSE) to find the corresponding month number.

4. Text to Columns Feature

Excel’s Text to Columns can be used for bulk conversions if you have a list.

• Step 1: Select the column with month names.
• Step 2: Go to the Data tab, click on Text to Columns, and follow the wizard, choosing "Delimited."
• Step 3: You may then convert the results using the previously mentioned methods.

5. The VALUE Function

For a simple approach, especially for abbreviated month names, you can use the VALUE function with date formatting.

• Step 1: Write an abbreviated month name in A1 (like "Jan").
• Step 2: Use the formula =VALUE(TEXT(A1 & " 1", "mm")).

This will convert the month name into a number.

6. Combining MONTH and TEXT Functions

Another way is to combine the MONTH function with the TEXT function.

• Step 1: Place the full month name in A1.
• Step 2: Use =MONTH(TEXT(A1 & " 1", "mmm")).

This converts the month name directly into a number.

7. Nested IF Statements

While not the most efficient, you can use nested IF statements for small datasets.

• Formula Example:

=IF(A1="January", 1, IF(A1="February", 2, IF(A1="March", 3, IF(A1="April", 4, IF(A1="May", 5, IF(A1="June", 6, IF(A1="July", 7, IF(A1="August", 8, IF(A1="September", 9, IF(A1="October", 10, IF(A1="November", 11, IF(A1="December", 12, ""))))))))))))

8. Using the EDATE Function

The EDATE function can also aid in conversions, though it’s slightly more indirect.

• Formula: =MONTH(EDATE("1/1/2021", MATCH(A1, {"January", "February", "March", "April", "May", "June", "July", "August", "September", "October", "November", "December"}, 0)-1)).

This matches the month name and returns the respective number.

9. Using Find & Replace for Fast Changes

If you have the same month name multiple times, you can quickly convert them using Find & Replace.

• Step 1: Highlight the cells with month names.
• Step 2: Open Find & Replace (Ctrl + H).
• Step 3: Replace “January” with “1”, and so on for each month.

10. Create a Custom Function with VBA

For those comfortable with programming, creating a custom function in VBA allows for flexibility and efficiency:

Function MonthNumber(MonthName As String) As Integer
    MonthNumber = Month(DateValue("1 " & MonthName & " 2021"))
End Function

You can call this function in your Excel sheet using =MonthNumber(A1).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Spelling Errors: Always ensure that month names are spelled correctly.
• Case Sensitivity: Excel is generally case-insensitive, but it's best to stick to a consistent format.
• Data Type Issues: Make sure your data is in a text format if you're dealing with month names.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If a formula returns an error, double-check for any typos in your month names.
• If using functions like VLOOKUP, ensure the lookup range is correct.
• Verify that your cell formatting is appropriate, particularly if you're seeing unexpected outputs.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I convert month abbreviations?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Use similar formulas as above, but make sure your reference includes abbreviations like "Jan", "Feb", etc.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What if my month names are in a different language?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You’ll need to adapt your formulas or lookup table to reflect the language of the month names.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is there a way to automate this process?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, using VBA to create a custom function can automate conversions.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Recapping these easy methods to convert month names into numbers can significantly streamline your Excel tasks. From basic functions to VBA solutions, each approach has its benefits depending on the complexity of your dataset and your comfort level with Excel features. So, don’t hesitate to practice these techniques and explore even more Excel tutorials to sharpen your skills! Happy Excel-ing!

<p class="pro-note">💡Pro Tip: Keep your month data consistent for smoother conversions!</p>