LAMBDA strip trailing characters recursive

The LAMBDA function can be used to create custom, reusable functions. In the example shown, cell D5 contains the custom LAMBDA function "StripTrailingChars": =StripTrailingChars(B5,C5) The StripTrailingChars function is designed to accept two input parameters: str is the text from which to remove trailing characters, and char is the trailing character to remove. In the example shown, StripTrailingChars is configured to remove the characters seen in column C from the text seen in column B. These characters will only be removed when they are "trailing", i.e. when they appear at the end of the string. This custom LAMBDA formula illustrates a feature called recursion, in which a function calls itself. Note: the LAMBDA function is available through the beta channel of Excel 365 only.

April 14, 2025 · 1 min · 123 words · Charles Poole

Explanation

LAMBDA functioncan be used to create custom, reusable functions in Excel.

This example illustrates a feature called recursion, in which a function calls itself.

Recursion can be used to create elegant, compact, non-redundant code.

Excel formula: LAMBDA count words

This example is primarily proof of concept, to show a very simple recursive LAMBDA function.

MID strips one character at a time, which is why this formula is recursive.

The result is given to the StripTrailingChars function, along with the original value forchar.

Excel formula: Strip non-numeric characters

When all the target trailing characters have been removed, the function returns the current value forstr.

you’re able to find more general information about the LAMBDA functionhere.

For example, =MID(“apple”,2,3) returns “ppl”.

Excel formula: LAMBDA replace characters recursive

LEN will also count characters in numbers, but number formatting is not included.

Excel LAMBDA function

Excel MID function

Excel LEN function

Explanation#

Explanation