Google Sheets Function

CODE

Returns a numeric code for the first character in a text string.

Generate a formula with AI Same function in Excel

This function works the same in Google Sheets as it does in Excel — same syntax and arguments.

Syntax

CODE(text)

The CODE function returns the character code corresponding to the first character of a text string. The returned code is based on the character set used by your computer, typically ASCII or Unicode.

Arguments

textrequiredThe text for which you want the code of the first character.

Examples

=CODE("A")

Result: 65

Returns the ASCII code for the uppercase letter A.

=CODE("Excel")

Result: 69

Returns the code for the first character 'E'.

FAQ

What does CODE return if the string is empty?

It returns a #VALUE! error.

Related functions

CHAR CLEAN UNICODE