Calc LPAD function

The LPAD function adds a buffer to the beginning of a text to make it a certain length.

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For a full list of available calculation functions, please read What calculation functions are supported.


Description

The LPAD function adds padding the the left of a given text to make it a certain length. It's particularly useful for ensuring text aligns correctly or meets specific formatting requirements.


Syntax

LPAD(text, width, [char])

  • text: Required. The text that is to be padded.
  • width: Required. The total number of characters you want in the final string. This includes both the original characters and the added padding.
  • char: Optional. A specific character you want to use for padding, instead of the default space character.

Remarks

  • If the original text is shorter than totalWidth, LPAD will add spaces (or the specified character) to the end of the text until it reaches the desired length.
  • If the original text is already as long as or longer than totalWidth, the function will return the text as is, without adding any extra padding.

Example

FormulaDescriptionResult
=LPAD("BBQ and Slaw", 15)As the current length of the text is 12 characters, an additional 3 " " (spaces) are added to the left." BBQ and Slaw"
=LPAD("BBQ and Slaw", 15, "*")As the current length of the text is 12 characters, an additional 3 * are added to the left."***BBQ and Slaw"

Errors

For a full list of formula errors, please read Formula errors.


Related functions

See it working on your own data

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