1. Separating Columns in Excel

2. An extremely useful function in Excel is the Text to Column feature which can be used for any type of column separation but is especially useful for separating initials and first names from surnames and dividing dates into separate columns for easier sorting

3. From this To this

4. Step by Step Instructions Ensure there are the required number of blank columns immediately following the data to be split then select the records to be split

5. Click on the Data tab then click on Text to Columns

6. Choose the Delimited file type and click Next

7. Choose the Space delimiter in this instance - making sure you uncheck any other options and click Next

8. Choose a data format if required (leaving it as General is fine) and then click Finish