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ISTEXT Function
Summary
The ISTEXT function determines whether a given value is text, returning TRUE for text values and FALSE for numbers, dates, logical values, errors, or blank cells. This makes it essential for data validation and conditional processing in Excel spreadsheets.
Syntax
ISTEXT(value)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| value | Any |
Yes | Value or cell reference to check if it contains text |
Using the ISTEXT Function
ISTEXT is a fundamental IS function used to verify if data contains text before performing text-specific operations. It's commonly used in data validation, conditional formatting, and formula logic to handle mixed data types properly.
Common ISTEXT Examples
Basic Text Detection
=ISTEXT(A1)Returns TRUE if cell A1 contains text like 'Apple', FALSE if it contains 100 or a date.
Text vs Number Check
=ISTEXT("123")Returns TRUE because "123" is stored as text, not a number.
Mixed Data Column Check
=IF(ISTEXT(B2), B2&" (text)", B2)Appends '(text)' to text values, leaves numbers unchanged.
Data Validation Helper
=ISTEXT(C2)*1Returns 1 if text, 0 if not - useful for counting text cells.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
Unexpected FALSE result
Cause: Numbers stored as text might align right but still be text
Solution: Use ISTEXT to confirm data type before processing
Confusing text numbers with numeric values
Cause: "100" looks like 100 but is text
Solution: Combine with VALUE function for conversion attempts
Notes
- Text values always left-align by default
- Numbers in quotes like "19" return TRUE
- Dates stored as serial numbers return FALSE
- Combine with IF for conditional text processing
- Part of Excel's IS function family for type checking
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+