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Information
The Excel N function converts a value to a number: numbers stay, dates become serials, TRUE becomes 1, and text becomes 0. Its most popular modern use is adding in-formula comments.
Quick answer: coerce to a number:
=N(TRUE) // returns 1
Syntax
=N(value)
| Argument | Description | |
|---|---|---|
value | Required | A value to coerce to a number. |
How to use it
N is rarely needed for conversion today, but it has a beloved trick: append +N("note") to document a formula inline, since N of text is 0 and doesn’t change the result:
=A2*B2+N("price times qty") // the +N(...) is a self-documenting comment
Try it: interactive demo
Live demo
Pick an input and watch the formula and result update.
Result:
Practice workbook
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Frequently asked questions
What does N return for text?
0 — which is exactly why +N("comment") is a safe inline note.
N values for TRUE/FALSE?
TRUE → 1, FALSE → 0.
Is N still needed for conversion?
Rarely — Excel coerces automatically in most math. The comment trick is its main modern use.
N vs VALUE?
VALUE converts text that looks like a number to that number; N converts text to 0. Different jobs.
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