COLUMN
The COLUMN function returns the column number of a specified cell reference. It helps in obtaining the column number for a given cell. This is useful when creating dynamic formulas or references.

Example explanation
This example uses the COLUMN function in cells [B2:B4] to identify the column number for the cells mentioned in [A2:A4].
Syntax 🔗
=COLUMN([reference])
reference (Optional) | The cell reference for which the column number is to be returned. If omitted, the column number of the cell in which the formula is entered is returned. |
About COLUMN 🔗
Use the COLUMN function to easily find the column number of a specific cell in your Excel spreadsheet. This function provides the column number for a given cell reference, which can be useful for creating dynamic formulas or setting up references in your worksheet. If you don't provide a specific cell reference, the COLUMN function returns the column number of the cell containing the formula. This makes it adaptable for various tasks.
Examples 🔗
To obtain the column number for cell D10, use the formula:
=COLUMN(D10)
This returns the value 4, as cell D10 is in the 4th column of the worksheet.
To acquire the column number of the cell where the formula is entered, use:
=COLUMN()
This returns the column number of the cell in which the formula is located.
Notes 🔗
Use the COLUMN function when you need dynamic referencing or column-related calculations. Ensure that this function fits the specific requirements of your spreadsheet and intended calculations.
Questions 🔗
The COLUMN function can be particularly valuable in situations where there is a need to dynamically obtain the column number for a specific cell reference within the spreadsheet. It can aid in creating dynamic formulas, establishing references, or facilitating column-based calculations.
How can I use the COLUMN function to obtain the column number of a specific cell?To retrieve the column number for a designated cell, simply use the syntax: =COLUMN([reference])
, where reference
is the cell reference for which the column number is to be returned. If reference
is omitted, the function returns the column number of the cell in which the formula is entered.
Yes, the COLUMN function is well-suited for dynamic referencing, offering the ability to dynamically acquire the column number for a given cell reference. This can be particularly advantageous in scenarios where flexible or dynamic formulas are required.