In this case, you could create a custom number format consisting of the code 0000000000, which forces Excel to display all ten digits of the product code, including the leading zero. For example, if you're typing or pasting ten-digit product codes in a worksheet, Excel changes numbers like 0784367998 to 784367998. If this is not what you want, you can create a custom number format that forces Excel to retain the leading zero. When you enter a number that begins with a zero-for example, a product code-Excel deletes the zero by default. To use decimal places in numbers that are stored as text, you may need to include the decimal points when you type the numbers.

Those numbers will be formatted as text.Ĭlick the arrow in the Number Format box, and then click Text. Tip: You can also select empty cells, and then enter numbers after you format the cells as text.