How do I import GEOID as string from CSV?

Question

I am trying to import a CSV, with a block group GeoID. The TIGER file has a GeoID as a string so I need to bring it in as a string. But it comes in as an int! I put it in double quotes the double quotes show up in the fields! I try to create a new field that converts from block group to Long but it fails! This is so frustrating!

DavidPike · Answer

Hi, I'm not sure what GeoID and TIGER are but have you tried Double as a format? Field calculator may need an expression to convert string to number (can easily write it for you).

Have you got any screen grabs or more info as I may not be grasping the problem properly.