Understanding the data format in WPS spreadsheets

Convert between numbers and text

In WPS软件 Spreadsheets, numbers and text are the two most common cell formats. Mastering how to convert between them is crucial for avoiding calculation errors and improving data processing efficiency.

Numbers with more than 11 digits will automatically be converted to text

When the number of digits entered exceeds 11, the system will automatically recognize it as text format. Such text cells usually appear as follows:

  • The default is left-aligned, while numbers are right-aligned;
  • Cannot directly participate in calculations or formula operations;
  • A small green triangle will appear in the upper left corner of the cell.

Two ways to convert text to numbers

If the text format needs to be restored to numbers, you can use the following operations:

  1. Direct conversion method:
     Select the target area, click the green triangle → click the exclamation point icon → select Convert to Number . This method works in almost all cases.
  2. The menu option method:
     Select the cell range → Go to the [Home] tab → Click [Format] → Select Convert Text to Number . This method can also successfully complete the conversion.

Methods for converting numbers to text

If you need to keep the numbers as text, you can follow these steps:

  • Select the numbers → Open the [Data] tab → Click [Text to Columns] → Check [Delimited] → Next, click [Finish].
    This will keep the numbers in text format and will no longer be used in calculations.

Custom number formats

In addition to regular formats, WPS表格 Spreadsheet also supports custom formats. By using code rules, you can make the data display more in line with actual needs.

Structure of a custom format

A complete custom format consists of four parts:

  1. Displaying positive numbers
  2. How to display negative numbers
  3. How zero values are displayed
  4. How text is displayed

Each part ;is separated by a semicolon, and users can set part or all of them as needed.

Commonly used placeholders

In a custom format, there are three core placeholders:

  • #: Displays significant digits without retaining insignificant zeros.
  • 0: Force the display of zero. If the number of digits is insufficient, zeros will be automatically added.
  • @: Represents text content and is used to set the display mode of the text.

By combining placeholders and formatting symbols, you can create thousands of custom display effects. For example:

  • #,###Thousands separator display can be achieved.
  • 0.00The value will be forced to two decimal places.
  • @-完成The word “Done” will be automatically appended to the text content.

Custom settings

Learning how to convert data formats and customize settings is an important step in improving your WPS spreadsheet skills.

  • By mastering the mutual conversion between numbers and text, you can avoid formula calculation failure or data recognition errors.
  • By flexibly using custom formats, you can make the values in the table present a more professional and intuitive visual effect.

Whether you are a beginner or a user who needs to process large amounts of data, understanding these techniques can make data processing more efficient.

WPS Spreadsheets provides users with a variety of data formats that help organize, calculate, and present information in a clear way. Each format has a unique purpose, and understanding them is essential for avoiding mistakes and ensuring accuracy. For example, the General format is the default and displays data exactly as entered, while the Number format allows mathematical operations. If data is set as Text, it will not be included in calculations, which can lead to errors if not applied correctly. Similarly, the Date and Time formats convert raw values into calendar-based entries, allowing users to choose how the information is displayed, such as “28-08-2025” or “August 28, 2025.” WPS also includes specialized options like Currency, Percentage, Fraction, and Scientific formats, which are highly useful for financial, statistical, or technical tasks.

Using the correct format not only improves readability but also ensures smooth analysis and consistency across spreadsheets. A single formatting error, such as treating numbers as text, can disrupt formulas and reports. By learning how to apply and customize formats, users can enhance data presentation, maintain accuracy, and create professional spreadsheets. Ultimately, mastering data formats in WPS Spreadsheets turns raw input into meaningful insights for smarter decision-making.

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