How to Convert Text to Numbers in Google Sheets

Google Sheets: Convert Text to Numbers with Automatic, Number, and Custom Formats This episode shows how to fix values that look like numbers but are actually text in Google Sheets, a common issue after copying and pasting data. It explains how to spot the problem when numbers don’t align like normal numeric values, then walks through trying Format → Number → Automatic, and if needed Format → Number → Number (and adjusting decimal places). It also demonstrates using Format → Number → Custom number format to control commas and leading zeros, explaining how patterns like #,###0 add thousands separators and how adding extra zeros forces leading zeros. The goal is to convert text-like numbers into true numbers so functions like COUNTIFS, SUMIFS, COUNT, and SUM work correctly. 00:00 Text That Looks Numeric 00:15 Why Sheets Misformats 00:46 Quick Fix With Automatic 00:57 Custom Number Formats 01:23 Commas and Leading Zeros 01:38 Apply and Verify Results 01:55 Fix Broken Formulas 02:13 Subscribe and Next Videos