Abstract: A method and data processing system are disclosed for storing data in a cache memory and retrieving data from a cache memory in a selected one of multiple data formats. According to the present invention, bits are selected from an L-byte data word to produce N input words, which each have m bits. The N input words are then stored within the cache memory. In response to receipt of a request for data within the L-byte data word having a selected one of the multiple data formats, the N input words are recalled from the cache memory and simultaneously formatted to produce a P-byte formatted data word. Thus, a P-byte formatted data word is efficiently retrieved from the cache memory and formatted according to a selected one of multiple data formats before being utilized in the data processing system.