INDEX
The INDEX function returns the value of a cell in a table or array based on specified row and column numbers. It is used for looking up values within a range or array.
Example explanation
Cell D3 uses the INDEX function to retrieve the role of a team member based on row and column numbers provided in the function.
Syntax 🔗
=INDEX(array, row_num, [column_num])
array | The range of cells or an array from which you want to retrieve the value. |
row_num | The row number within the array from which you want to retrieve the value. |
column_num (Optional) | The column number within the array from which you want to retrieve the value. If omitted, the function returns the entire row specified by row_num. |
About INDEX 🔗
Use the INDEX function in Excel to extract specific data from tables or arrays based on row and column references. It helps you locate and retrieve values from different parts of a table or an array, making data lookup operations straightforward. To use INDEX, specify the array containing the value you want, indicate the row number for the desired data, and optionally include the column number if the array is two-dimensional. This function simplifies data retrieval, providing an easy way to access information within a structured dataset. INDEX is useful for dynamic data referencing and extraction from various locations in a table or array, supporting efficient data management and analysis.
Examples 🔗
Consider a table with student names in column A and their corresponding scores in column B. If you want to retrieve the score for the third student in the list, you can use the INDEX function as follows: =INDEX(A2:B10, 3, 2). This will return the score for the third student in the table.
Imagine an array containing sales data for different regions in rows and various months in columns. If you aim to fetch the sales figure for the Southern region in May, you can employ the INDEX function: =INDEX(C2:H10, 3, 5). This will fetch the sales amount for the Southern region in May from the array.
Notes 🔗
When you use the INDEX function, make sure the row and column numbers you provide are within the dimensions of the specified array. If the references are incorrect, you may encounter #REF! errors. The INDEX function is useful for dynamic data retrieval from tables, making it suitable for interactive spreadsheets with changing data needs.
Questions 🔗
Yes, the INDEX function can retrieve values from multiple sheets within the same workbook. Simply specify the sheet name followed by the cell range in the array argument to access data from different sheets.
If you specify a row or column number that exceeds the dimensions of the array, Excel will return a #REF! error indicating an invalid reference. Ensure that the row and column numbers fall within the array boundaries for accurate data retrieval.
Can the INDEX function be used with non-contiguous ranges?Yes, the INDEX function can handle non-contiguous ranges by specifying multiple array ranges within the function. Simply separate the ranges by commas within the array argument to retrieve values from different areas across a worksheet.
No, the INDEX function in Excel is not case-sensitive when referencing cell ranges. You can use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters in cell references without affecting the function's functionality.