Introduction
In today’s digital world, Excel isn’t just a tool for calculations — it’s also used to manage and exchange data online. When you work with web links, APIs, and online data, you often need to convert text into a URL-friendly format.
That’s where the ENCODEURL function comes in!
In this guide, we’ll go step by step from basics to advanced concepts so that students, learners, and professionals can fully understand how ENCODEURL works in Excel.
What is ENCODEURL in Excel?
The ENCODEURL function converts any text string into a URL-encoded format by replacing special characters (spaces, &, %, ?, =) with encoded values that are safe to use in URLs, APIs, and web data processing.
For example:
| Input |
Output |
| Excel Functions & Formulas |
Excel%20Functions%20%26%20Formulas |
| MS Excel 2025 |
MS%20Excel%202025 |
This makes your data compatible with browsers, servers, and APIs.
Syntax
Arguments
| Argument |
Description |
text |
The text you want to convert into a URL-safe format. |
Availability
| Excel Version |
Supported |
| Excel 2010 & Earlier |
❌ Not Available |
| Excel 2013 (Windows) |
✅ Yes |
| Excel 2016, 2019, 2021 |
✅ Yes |
| Excel 365 |
✅ Yes |
| Excel for Mac |
❌ Not Available |
Why Do We Use ENCODEURL?
-
To generate URL-friendly text automatically
-
To create dynamic links for Google, YouTube, etc.
-
To fetch data using Excel APIs
-
To handle special characters in URLs safely
Basic Examples of ENCODEURL
Example 1: Simple Text Encoding
Result:
Spaces are replaced with %20.
Example 2: Encoding Special Characters
Result:
Here, & is replaced by %26.
Example 3: Encoding Cell Values
If A2 contains MS Excel Tips:
Result:
Intermediate Examples
Example 4: Create Google Search URLs
Explanation:
Example 5: YouTube Search Automation
Example 6: Generating API-Friendly Links
This ensures your query works even when there are spaces or special characters.
Advanced Examples
Example 7: Combine ENCODEURL with SUBSTITUTE
If you want to remove spaces and encode text:
-
If A2 = Excel Basics
-
Result = Excel_Basics
Example 8: Create Dynamic QR Code URLs
Example 9: Automate Multiple Links
If you have 100+ names in column A, use:
Drag the formula down to generate hundreds of URLs automatically.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake |
Cause |
Solution |
| #NAME? Error |
Using ENCODEURL in Excel 2010 or earlier |
Upgrade to Excel 2013+ |
| Wrong Encoding |
Double-encoding a string |
Use ENCODEURL only once |
| Function Not Available |
Using Excel for Mac |
Use online URL encoder |
Pro Tips for Students & Learners
-
Always test URLs before sharing.
-
Use ENCODEURL with HYPERLINK() for dynamic, clickable links.
-
Combine with WEBSERVICE() for fetching live API data.
-
Automate Google, YouTube, and Wikipedia searches.
-
Best for data analysts, students, and digital marketers.
FAQs
Q1. What is the use of ENCODEURL in Excel?
It converts text into a URL-safe format for APIs, hyperlinks, and web-based data.
Q2. Does ENCODEURL work on Excel for Mac?
No, currently it’s available only in Windows versions.
Q3. Can I decode an ENCODEURL value in Excel?
No, Excel has no built-in DECODEURL function, but you can use online decoders.
Q4. Is ENCODEURL available in Excel 365?
Yes, fully supported.
Conclusion
The ENCODEURL function is extremely useful for students, beginners, and professionals working with URLs, APIs, and online data.
From basic encoding to automated searches and API integrations, mastering ENCODEURL helps you manage data smarter and faster.
