How to Insert a Dot between Numbers in Excel - 3 Methods

In the sample dataset, you have the Vehicle Engine Chassis Number, and want to insert dots.

Method 1 – Using the REPLACE Function to Insert a Dot between Numbers

The REPLACE function replaces characters with new_text.

Step 1: Insert the following formula in any cell (here, D5).

=REPLACE(REPLACE(REPLACE(REPLACE(REPLACE(REPLACE(C5,2,0,"."),7,0,"."),10,0,"."),12,0,"."),14,0,"."),16,0,".")

The formula takes the REPLACE function’s arguments ( old_text, start_num, num_chars, new_text). The multiple brackets insert dots in specific location.

Step 2: Press ENTER and drag the Fill Handle.

Method 2 – Inserting Dots between Numbers Using Multiple Formulas

A combination of the LEFT, MID, and RIGHT functions along with the Ampersand (&) can also insert dots. .

Step 1: Enter the following formula in D5.

=LEFT(C5,1) & "." & MID(C5,2,4) & "." & MID(C5,6,2) & "." &MID(C5,8,1) & "."& MID(C5,9,1) & "."& MID(C5,10,1) & "." & RIGHT(C5,7)

The formula inserts the 1^stdot using the LEFT function and the middle dots using the MID function. The RIGHT function inserts the last dot.

Step 2: Press ENTER and drag the Fill Handle.

Method 3 – Using the CONCATENATE Function to Insert Dots within Numbers in Excel

You have multiple different numbers and want to create Unique Ids with dots.

Step 1: Enter the formula in E5.

=CONCATENATE(B5,CHAR(46),C5,CHAR(46),D5)

The CONCATENATE function takes multiple texts as arguments (iB5, CHAR (46),….) to concatenate them as a Unique Id. The CHAR function represents the ASCII code for the Dot character.

Step 2: Press ENTER key to apply the formula and drag the Fill Handle.

Using Cell Formatting to Insert a Trailing Dot

Step 1: Highlight the entire column. Go to the Home tab to and in Font, choose Font Settings or press CTRL+1, to open the Format Cells window.