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TOCOL

The TOCOL function in Google Sheets is a useful tool to transform an array or range of cells into a single column. This function can be used to reformat data or prepare it for further analysis. Learn how to use TOCOL effectively with our comprehensive guide.

Function Syntax and Parameters

Syntax: TOCOL(array_or_range, [ignore], [scan_by_column])

Parameters:

  • array_or_range: The array or range of cells to be transformed into a single column.
  • ignore: [Optional] A cell or range of cells to be ignored during the transformation.
  • scan_by_column: [Optional] A boolean value that determines whether the function should scan the range by column. By default, the function scans the range by row.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

  1. Using TOCOL with an array or range of cells:

    • Example: =TOCOL(A1:B3)
    • Result: Transforms the values from cells A1 to B3 into a single column.
  2. Using TOCOL with an ignored cell or range:

    • Example: =TOCOL(A1:B3, C2)
    • Result: Transforms the values from cells A1 to B3 into a single column, ignoring the value in cell C2.
  3. Using TOCOL with column scanning:

    • Example: =TOCOL(A1:B3, , TRUE)
    • Result: Transforms the values from cells A1 to B3 into a single column by scanning the range column-wise.

Use Cases and Scenarios

  1. Data Formatting: Reorganize data from multiple columns into a single column for better analysis.
  2. Data Cleaning: Remove unnecessary columns and transform remaining data into a single column.
  3. Data Validation: Restructure data for easier data validation and error checking.

Related Functions

  • FLATTEN: Flattens multiple rows or columns into a single column.
  • TRANSPOSE: Transposes the rows and columns of a given range or array.

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