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Merging names means combining text from two or more cells into one cell without losing any data. Excel performs this through text functions because the Merge & Center button removes data from all cells except the upper-left cell. To merge names in two cells in Excel, use a text function that joins the values. Excel provides several functions that complete this task cleanly.

Method 1: Using the Ampersand (&) Operator

A quick method uses the & symbol to join text.

1. Select the cell where the final merged name will appear.

2. Enter a formula that joins the two cells.

3. Press Enter to complete the merge.

The general formula is: 

A1 \ \&\ " "\ \&\ B1

This creates a space between the first and last names.

Method 2: Using the CONCAT Function

CONCAT joins text from multiple cells without additional formatting.

1. Select the destination cell.

2. Type the CONCAT formula.

3. Press Enter.

Formula: 

\text{CONCAT}(A1,\ " ",\ B1)

Method 3: Using the TEXTJOIN Function

TEXTJOIN handles multiple cells and lets you set a delimiter.

1. Select the output cell.

2. Enter the TEXTJOIN formula.

3. Press Enter.

Formula:

\text{TEXTJOIN}(" ",\ TRUE,\ A1,\ B1)

The TRUE argument ignores empty cells.

Method 4: Using Flash Fill (Windows Only)

Flash Fill automatically detects patterns.

1. Enter the merged name manually in the first cell of a new column.

2. Go to Data.

3. Select Flash Fill or press Ctrl + E.

Flash Fill is not available on Excel for Mac before Office 365; newer versions support it.

Which method should you use?

The & operator works fastest for simple merges. CONCAT and TEXTJOIN handle structured data better. Flash Fill works best when you need Excel to auto-detect patterns.

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