Use the TRIM function to convert “text-numbers” to real numbers - Text Functions - Microsoft Excel Tutorials

Use the TRIM function to convert “text-numbers” to real numbers in Microsoft Excel

In this example numbers entered as text have to be converted to values. To do this, use the VALUE and TRIM Text functions in combination to get the correct result. The VALUE function converts a text string that represents a number to a number, and the TRIM function deletes all leading and trailing spaces.  

To convert text that represents a number to a value:

1. Format column A as text.
2. In cells A2:A10, type a series of numbers with leading spaces.
3. Select cells B2:B10 and type the following formula: =VALUE(TRIM(A2)).
4. Press <-Ctrl+Enter->.

Watch the Video Tutorial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5DRAT4Rkv4