Google Sheets beginner flatten data-manipulation

How to Flatten Multiple Columns in Google Sheets?

Flatten Columns into List is a Google Sheets function that the flatten function converts a 2d range or multiple columns into a single column list.. Formula Genius generates and validates this formula automatically from a plain-English prompt.

Struggling to combine data from multiple columns? The FLATTEN function simplifies this by creating a single list from your selected range.

The Formula

Prompt

"Combine multiple columns or a 2D range into a single flat list using FLATTEN"

Google Sheets
=FLATTEN(A1:B10)

The FLATTEN function converts a 2D range or multiple columns into a single column list.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

  1. Select the range of cells you want to flatten.
  2. Use the FLATTEN function with the selected range as the argument.
  3. The function will output a single column containing all values from the selected range.
  4. Empty cells will be ignored in the output.

Edge Cases & Warnings

  • Using FLATTEN on a range with mixed data types may lead to unexpected ordering.
  • If the selected range contains only empty cells, the output will be an empty column.
  • Applying FLATTEN on a very large range may cause performance issues.
  • Using FLATTEN on a range with merged cells can lead to data loss.

Examples

Prompt

"Range A1:B3 contains: A1, B1; A2, B2; A3, B3"

Google Sheets
A1; A2; A3; B1; B2; B3
Prompt

"Range D1:D3 contains: 1; 2; (empty cell)"

Google Sheets
1; 2

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use FLATTEN with non-contiguous ranges?

No, FLATTEN only works with contiguous ranges.

Does FLATTEN preserve the order of data?

Yes, FLATTEN maintains the original order of the data.

What happens to formulas in the flattened range?

The output will show the results of the formulas, not the formulas themselves.

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