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Proper Case Names Formula
Use this when imported names arrive in inconsistent uppercase, lowercase, or spacing.
Convert names to proper case in Excel or Google Sheets.
If A2 is maya chen with extra spaces, the result is Maya Chen.
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=PROPER(TRIM(A2))=PROPER(TRIM(A2))PROPER capitalizes the first letter of each word after TRIM removes ordinary edge and repeated spaces; it does not know brand-specific capitalization rules.
Example data
| Raw Text | Example Result |
|---|---|
| Maya Chen | Maya |
| SKU-1001-East | SKU |
| https://www.example.com/pricing | example.com |
| Acme North | Acme North |
If A2 is maya chen with extra spaces, the result is Maya Chen.
How the formula works
- TRIM cleans spacing first.
- PROPER capitalizes the first letter of each word.
- Review acronyms and brand names manually after applying.
| Syntax piece | Role in the formula |
|---|---|
| TRIM(A2) | The cleaned source text passed to PROPER. |
| PROPER | The function that capitalizes the first letter of each word. |
| review output | A manual review step for acronyms, brands, and names with special capitalization. |
Verified examples
=PROPER(TRIM(A2))Excel: Enter two leading spaces, maya chen, and two trailing spaces in A2. Returns: Maya Chen
=PROPER(TRIM(A2))Google Sheets: Enter acme usa in A2. Returns: Acme Usa
=PROPER(TRIM(A2))Excel: Enter o'NEILL in A2. Returns: O'Neill
Common errors and fixes
| Issue | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| USA becomes Usa | PROPER applies word capitalization without knowing acronym conventions. | Apply a manual exception or a targeted replacement after PROPER. |
| A brand name is capitalized incorrectly | Brand capitalization does not follow ordinary title case. | Keep an exception list or use a targeted replacement for known brands. |
| Spacing is still inconsistent | The source contains nonbreaking spaces that TRIM does not remove. | Replace CHAR(160) before applying PROPER(TRIM(A2)). |
When not to use this formula
- Do not use PROPER as a name validator or when every acronym and brand exception must be preserved automatically.
Alternatives
| Alternative | When to use it |
|---|---|
| Remove Extra Spaces Formula | Use when spacing cleanup is needed without changing capitalization. |
| CSV Column Cleaner | Use when a full imported name column needs repeatable cleanup. |
Related formulas
Official references
- PROPER function from Microsoft
FAQ
Can PROPER preserve acronyms?
No. It changes USA to Usa and similar acronyms need manual exceptions.
Does PROPER validate a person's name?
No. It changes the capitalization of every word and should be reviewed for names and brands.