VLOOKUP Function

Syntax

=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])

Description

The VLOOKUP function searches for a value in the first column of a table and returns a value in the same row from another column. It is particularly useful for looking up and retrieving data in a vertical table format.

Arguments

• lookup_value: The value to search for in the first column of the table. This can be a specific value or a cell reference.
• table_array: The range of cells that contains the data. The first column of this range will be searched for the lookup value.
• col_index_num: The column number in the table_array from which to return the value. The first column is 1.
• [range_lookup] (optional): A logical value that specifies whether to look for an exact match (FALSE) or an approximate match (TRUE or omitted).

Return Value

The value from the specified column in the same row where the lookup value is found.

How to Use the VLOOKUP Function

Basic Example: Suppose you have a table with product IDs in column A and prices in column B. To find the price of a product with ID “1234”:

=VLOOKUP(1234, A2:B10, 2, FALSE)

This formula looks for “1234” in column A and returns the corresponding value from column B.

Approximate Match: If your data is sorted and you want to find the closest match, use:

=VLOOKUP(50, A2:B10, 2, TRUE)

This will return the value from the closest row with a lookup value less than or equal to 50.

Using Cell References: You can use cell references for dynamic formulas:

=VLOOKUP(D1, A2:C10, 3, FALSE)

where D1 contains the lookup value.

VLOOKUP Function Tips and Tricks

Use Absolute References: Use dollar signs (e.g., $A$2:$B$10) to fix the table range when copying the formula to other cells.

Combine with IFERROR: To avoid errors when the lookup value is not found, use:

=IFERROR(VLOOKUP(1234, A2:B10, 2, FALSE), "Not Found")

For Larger Tables: Use named ranges for better readability and easier formula management.

Consider XLOOKUP: In newer versions of Excel, the XLOOKUP function provides more flexibility and should be used instead of VLOOKUP when available.

Additional Resources

• Microsoft Documentation: Microsoft’s Official VLOOKUP Documentation
• More Excel Tutorials: Explore more Excel Functions

Comments & Questions
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