How do I change text to uppercase in Excel without retyping?

Use the =UPPER() formula in a new column, drag it down, then copy and Paste Special > Values over the original column.

What is the difference between UPPER, LOWER and PROPER in Excel?

UPPER() converts all characters to uppercase, LOWER() to lowercase, and PROPER() capitalises the first letter of each word.

Can I apply UPPER or LOWER in place without a helper column?

Not directly with a formula — formulas always need a separate cell. Use Paste Special > Values after applying the formula to remove it and keep the result.

Convert Text Case in Excel: UPPER, PROPER & LOWER

Have you ever received an Excel document in which the cell contents have been entered in a randomized case fashion? Like what's below: Well, there are 3 Excel formulas dedicated to helping you quickly...

Have you ever received an Excel document in which the cell contents have been entered in a randomized case fashion? Like what's below:

Well, there are 3 Excel formulas dedicated to helping you quickly standardize the contents of your sheet. They are UPPER(), LOWER() and PROPER(). All you need to do is:

Step 1: Create a new column next to the original one and apply the desired formula (in our example below : =UPPER()) on the desired cell

Step 2: Drag the formula down to the extent of the original column

Step 3: Copy the contents of the new column and paste over the original column. Select the "As Values Only" Paste Option (highlighted in the red box below) to ensure that the formula results don't shift.

Now you have your formatted list. You can now delete the contents of the new column.

To format the contents as lower or proper case, you would repeat the same steps, but change the formula to =LOWER() or =PROPER() as appropriate. The snapshots are below:

LOWER CASE:

PROPER CASE:

Convert Text to UPPER, Proper or lower Case in Excel

Frequently Asked Questions