How to Combine Two Columns in Excel

Download the practice workbook 👉 HERE and follow along.

Merging two columns in Excel is a simple way to organize your data.

Whether you’re combining names, codes, or other text, this guide will show you easy methods anyone can follow.

Let’s get started!

Combine Two Columns Using the Ampersand (&) Symbol

The ampersand operator lets you join text from different cells quickly.

Steps:

• Click on the cell where you want the combined data, e.g. C2.
  • Type the formula: =A2 & " " & B2. Replace A2 and B2 with the cells you want to merge.
• Use " " to add a space, or ", " for a comma.
• Press Enter.

Drag the fill handle down to copy the formula to other rows.

Example:
If A2 has “Sheldon” and B2 has “Cooper,” the formula will create “Sheldon Cooper”.

Use the CONCAT Function

The CONCAT function works like the ampersand but is easier to use for many columns.

Steps:

1. Select the target cell.
2. Enter the formula: =CONCAT(A2, " ", B2).
3. Press Enter and use the fill handle to copy it down.

💡 Tip: If your Excel version is older, you can use CONCATENATE instead.

Merge Data with TEXTJOIN

TEXTJOIN is perfect for situations where you need to combine multiple cells with a separator. For example, creating a list of items.

Scenario:

• Suppose you have a list of names in cells A2 to A7.
• You want to create a single cell, e.g., B2 that lists all tasks separated by commas.

Steps:

• Click on an empty cell where you want the combined data, e.g., B2
• Use the TEXTJOIN function. For example, if your names are in cells A2 through A7

=TEXTJOIN(", ", TRUE, A2:A7)

This formula will combine all tasks into one cell, with each task separated by a comma and a space.

💡 Note: TEXTJOIN is available in Excel 2019 (and above), and Microsoft 365.

Featured Course

Master Excel’s Essential Modern Functions

Master the essential Excel functions most professionals don’t know: FILTER, SORT, UNIQUE, XLOOKUP, SEQUENCE. Create reports in minutes instead of hours.

Learn More

Flash Fill for Quick Results

Flash Fill is an automated way to merge data.

Steps:

1. Manually type the combined result in the first row (e.g., “Sheldon Cooper”).
2. Start typing in the second row. Excel will show a preview.
3. Press Enter to accept it.

💡 Tip: Make sure Flash Fill is enabled under Data > Flash Fill.

Limitations of Flash Fill

• Not Dynamic: Flash Fill results are static and don’t update if the original data changes.
• Placement Restriction: Combined data must be in the same rows, directly beside the source columns.
• Pattern Sensitivity: Flash Fill may fail if the input pattern is inconsistent.
• No Error Handling: It processes data as-is, so clean your data first.

If you want to learn more about Flash Fill, click here.

Merge Columns with Power Query

Power Query is one of the best tools for combining columns in Excel, especially if you’re working with large datasets.

Here’s why:

• Handles Big Data Easily: It processes large datasets quickly without slowing down your computer.
• Keeps Data Updated: If your source data changes, Power Query updates the results automatically.
• Safe for Original Data: Your original data stays untouched, so you don’t have to worry about mistakes.
• Customizable Options: You can filter, clean, and format your data while combining it—all in one step.

Want to know why Power Query is a must-have skill for Excel users? Click here to learn more.

Featured Course

Master Excel Power Query – Beginner to Pro

With Power Query, you can quickly turn messy data into smart decisions – fast! Automate repetitive tasks and create reports in a fraction of the time.

Learn More

Download the Free Practice File

Ready to learn how to combine two columns in Excel? Download our free practice workbook to follow along with the steps in this guide. Here’s what you’ll get:

• Hands-On Tasks: Practice combining columns using formulas like TEXTJOIN and CONCAT.
• Real-Life Scenarios: Learn how to clean and merge data effectively, just like in real-world projects.
• Time-Saving Tips: Discover shortcuts and tricks that make merging columns fast and easy.

📥 Download the Workbook Now to start improving your Excel skills today! Perfect for beginners and experienced users alike.

Featured Bundle

Black Belt Excel Bundle

This Excel Black Belt Package includes EIGHT of our Popular Courses. You’ll learn high-value, in-depth Excel skills that solve real problems.

Learn More

LinkedIn Twitter YouTube

Leila Gharani

I’ve spent over 20 years helping businesses use data to improve their results. I've worked as an economist and a consultant. I spent 12 years in corporate roles across finance, operations, and IT—managing SAP and Oracle projects.

As a 7-time Microsoft MVP, I have deep knowledge of tools like Excel and Power BI.

I love making complex tech topics easy to understand. There’s nothing better than helping someone realize they can do it themselves. I’m always learning new things too and finding better ways to help others succeed.

More About Leila Join 400,000+ professionals in our courses