- In short
- Takes the first N characters of each cell into a new column to the right. Leading zeros and codes are preserved as text. A new column. Your table stays untouched, and Undo Last stands by if you change your mind. Everything runs on your computer, with no internet involved.
What it is for
Take Left is used to take the leftmost N characters of each cell.
When to use it
Typical use: split a code's prefix (e.g. plate/region) off the front.
Example scenarios
- Split a code's prefix (e.g. plate/region) off the front.
What it needs
A single column and an options dialog (N, use-header). Supported data types: text, number, date (by selection).
How to use it
- Select the range to extract from.
- On the XLMind Data tab, open the Split menu in the Extract group and choose Take Left.
- Tune the choices in the dialog before confirming.
- Confirm; a new column.
What it produces
A new column.
Effect on your data and undo
Take Left does not change your source data; the result is added as a separate item. Undo Last rolls the change back in a single step.
How it differs from similar tools
It works without formulas and never touches the source range; the result is produced separately, so the original table keeps its formulas intact.
Good to know
No special preconditions.
Limitations
No special preconditions.
Frequently asked questions
- Where does the result go?
- A new column.
- What happens to invalid or unexpected values?
- Text-safe.
- How are blank cells handled?
- Short strings handled.
- Does the result stay linked to the source?
- What you get is static: it will not follow later edits, so rerun the tool once the data moves on.
- Any known limits?
- No special preconditions.
Works well with
- As a preparation step, try Extract Number
- Afterwards, try Take Right
- Often used alongside this tool: Trim & Clean
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