How to Shorten URLs in Excel and Google Sheets

URLs can quickly become long and unwieldy, making them difficult to read and share. However, you can shorten URLs within popular spreadsheet applications like Excel and Google Sheets to improve readability and ease of use. This article will guide you through the different methods available in these applications to create shorter, more user-friendly links.

Shortening URLs in Excel

Using the Hyperlink Function

The most straightforward method to create a shortened URL in Excel is by using the HYPERLINK function. Here’s how you can do it:

Select the cell where you want the shortened link to appear. Use the HYPERLINK function. The basic syntax is: HYPERLINK("your_shortened_URL", "text_you_want_to_display")

Replace your_shortened_URL with the actual shortened URL from a service like Bitly, and text_you_want_to_display with the text you wish to display in the cell.

Using a URL Shortener

Another approach is to use an online URL shortening service. Here’s how:

Copy the long URL you want to shorten. Go to a URL shortener website such as Bitly or TinyURL. Paste the link into the website, which will generate a shortened link for you. Copy the shortened link and paste it into your Excel spreadsheet.

Embedding the hyperlink by its name in a ‘Link’ object is another method:

From the toolbar, tap the ‘Insert Link’ icon. This will display two things: a shortened text field to display to your user and an address for your hyperlink.

Shortening URLs in Google Sheets

Using the Hyperlink Function

Google Sheets also employs the HYPERLINK function to create shortened links, similar to Excel. The steps are as follows:

Click on the cell where you want the link to appear. Use the HYPERLINK function in the same way: HYPERLINK("your_shortened_URL", "text_you_want_to_display")

Again, replace your_shortened_URL with the actual shortened URL and text_you_want_to_display with the text you wish to show.

Using Add-ons

For more advanced users, Google Sheets offers add-ons that can help shorten URLs:

Go to 'Extensions' > 'Add-ons' > 'Get add-ons' Search for URL shorteners such as Bitly or TinyURL. Install and use these add-ons to create shorter URLs directly within your sheet.

Both Excel and Google Sheets do not have built-in URL shortening features. Using an external service is often the best approach if you frequently need to shorten URLs.

Additional Tips

When choosing a URL shortener, consider those that provide analytics, such as Bitly, to track the performance of the shortened links.

By shortening URLs, you can ensure that your spreadsheets remain clean and easy to read, while also making it easier to share and use long links. Whether you need to create links for reports, websites, or simply for easier user interaction, these methods provide a simple solution.