Thanks Rowan, since there several columns of data on either side of those
middle names, I can insert a column, use the formula you recommended in the
"new" column, and remove the "old" column with the middle names when finished.
Thanks again,
RC

"Rowan" wrote:

Assuming the middle names are in Column B, in another column (say D1) enter
the formula =Left(B1) and copy it down.

Hope this helps
Rowan

"RC" wrote:

In a spreadsheet containing a long list of names, with the last, first, and
middle names in separate columns, what is the easiest way to replace each
middle name with only a middle initial?