Google Sheets PROPER Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips

text_to_capitalize:
The text string or cell reference that you want to convert to proper case, where the first letter of each word is capitalized and all other letters are in lowercase.

What is a PROPER Function?

The PROPER function in Google Sheets is a text function used to capitalize the first letter of each word in a given string while converting all other letters to lowercase. This function is particularly useful for formatting names, titles, or any text where proper capitalization is required.

In simpler terms, PROPER helps you ensure that your text looks neat and professional by capitalizing the first letter of each word.

A Practical Example

Imagine you have a list of names in a Google Sheets document that are not properly capitalized:

Names Table:

You want to format these names so that each name has the first letter of each word capitalized.

PROPER Formula

To achieve this, you would use the PROPER function as follows:

=PROPER(A2)

In this formula:

• A2 is the cell containing the name you want to format.

Result of the Formula

When you apply the PROPER formula to the Names Table, the output would look like this:

As you can see, the PROPER function has transformed the names into a more readable format.

Why Use PROPER?

PROPER is beneficial because it simplifies the process of formatting text in Google Sheets. It ensures consistency in the presentation of names and titles, making your data look more professional. This function is especially useful when importing data from external sources where capitalization may not be uniform.

Key Takeaways:

• PROPER: A text function that capitalizes the first letter of each word in a string.
• Text Formatting: Ideal for formatting names, titles, and any text requiring proper capitalization.
• Consistency: Helps maintain a uniform appearance in your data, enhancing readability.
• Common Use Cases: Useful for cleaning up imported data, preparing lists of names, and ensuring proper formatting in reports.

PROPER is an essential function for anyone working with text in Google Sheets, providing a straightforward way to enhance the presentation of your data.

Happy spreadsheeting!