Apply Number Format in Excel
The Number format in Excel allows you to display numeric values with decimals, thousand separators, and options for negative numbers. It is useful for financial, statistical, or general numeric data.
How to Apply Number Format
- Select the cells containing the numbers you want to format
- Go to the Home tab → Number group
- Click the dropdown and select Number
- Optionally, adjust decimal places, thousand separator, or negative number display
Tips & Best Practices
- Use Number format for general numeric data to improve readability
- Enable thousand separators for large numbers to avoid confusion
- Combine with Conditional Formatting for highlighting important numbers
FAQ
- Q: Can I change decimal places after applying Number format?
- Yes, select the cells and modify decimal places in the Number group settings.
- Q: Can I show negative numbers differently?
- Yes, Excel allows formatting negative numbers with minus sign, parentheses, or in red color.
- Q: Does Number format affect calculations?
- No, calculations use the underlying numeric values, not the displayed format.