How to Split a Cell in Excel

Separate one column into several — first and last names, a full address, a comma-separated list — with Text to Columns, Flash Fill, or a formula. Here's each method and when to use it.

By the Quiriz Team · Published July 24, 2026 · 4 min read

The quick answer: select the column, go to Data → Text to Columns, choose Delimited, tick the character that separates your data (a space, comma or tab), and click Finish. Here are the three methods and when each is best.

One thing to clear up: Excel doesn't split a single cell into two the way it merges two into one. It spreads a cell's contents across columns to the right — so leave empty columns there before you start.

1. Text to Columns (the workhorse)

Select the column, then Data → Text to Columns. Choose Delimited to split on a character, click Next, and tick the delimiter — Space for names, Comma for CSV-style data. The preview shows the result; click Finish. Choose Fixed width instead when the split is by position, not a character.

2. Flash Fill (fastest for patterns)

In the column next to your data, type what you want the first row to become — just the first name, say — then press Ctrl + E. Excel recognizes the pattern and fills the rest. Great for pulling first names, domains from emails, or area codes from phone numbers.

3. TEXTSPLIT (Excel 365)

For a live formula that updates as data changes, =TEXTSPLIT(A2," ") splits on spaces and spills into separate cells. Swap the space for any delimiter. On older Excel without TEXTSPLIT, Text to Columns is the reliable route.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I split first and last name in Excel?

Select the name column, go to Data > Text to Columns > Delimited > Next, tick Space as the delimiter, and click Finish. First and last names land in separate columns. Flash Fill (Ctrl+E) also works: type the first name in the next column and press Ctrl+E.

Can I split one cell into two cells in Excel?

Not literally — Excel splits a cell's contents into adjacent columns, it doesn't divide a single cell in two the way merging combines two. Use Text to Columns to spread the contents across columns to the right.

What is Flash Fill and how do I use it?

Flash Fill spots a pattern from your example and fills the rest. Type the value you want (e.g. just the first name) in the column beside your data, start typing the second, and press Ctrl+E. Excel completes the column.

How do I split text with a formula?

In Excel 365, TEXTSPLIT does it: =TEXTSPLIT(A2," ") splits on spaces and spills into separate cells. On older versions, combine LEFT, RIGHT, MID and FIND, or just use Text to Columns.