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Write a formula that cleans messy product names

  • For Office and admin
  • You practice Setting limits and rules
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Beginner

About this exercise

Your product list has stray spaces and mixed capitals. Ask for one Excel formula for B2 in a single code block, then one line starting 'Example:' showing one row before and after, under 15 words outside the code. It should trim extra spaces, replace non-breaking spaces from web copy, and use Proper Case.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Using TRIM alone. TRIM leaves the hidden non-breaking spaces from the website copy. Try: Add: "SUBSTITUTE CHAR(160) with a normal space before TRIM."
  • Wrong order or case. The AI applies PROPER first or leaves capitals alone. Try: Add: "Wrap it all in PROPER(TRIM(...))."
  • Extra tools and chatter. The AI suggests Power Query and explains each function. Try: Add: "One formula in one code block, then an Example: line. Nothing else."
  • Leaving the format to chance. The AI picks its own length and layout unless told the exact shape. Try: Add: "Put the code in exactly 1 code block. Keep the writing outside the code under 15 words."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Names CHAR(160)
  • Names the functions
  • Rules out extra tools
  • Asks for an example line
  • Limits the output

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