If your VLOOKUP function isn’t working, don’t panic; here’s why and how to fix it.
1. Lookup_Value doesn't exist within the table_array
If VLOOKUP can’t find the lookup_value in the first column of the table_array, it will return N/A. Double check and ensure that one, the lookup_value actually exists, and two, the table_array isn't omitting any data.
If VLOOKUP can’t find the lookup_value in the first column of the table_array, it will return N/A. Double check and ensure that one, the lookup_value actually exists, and two, the table_array isn't omitting any data.
2. A column was inserted in the table_array
If a column was inserted in the table_array, VLOOKUP is no longer referencing the correct indexed column because it's hard coded. If you insert a new column in your data, make sure to update the col_index_num in your VLOOKUP function.
If a column was inserted in the table_array, VLOOKUP is no longer referencing the correct indexed column because it's hard coded. If you insert a new column in your data, make sure to update the col_index_num in your VLOOKUP function.
3. Lookup_value’s format doesn’t match table_array’s.
If the lookup_value is formatted as a text string, while the data it's searching in the table_array is formatted as a number, VLOOKUP will return an error. Double-check and make sure all of the data is formatted correctly.
If the lookup_value is formatted as a text string, while the data it's searching in the table_array is formatted as a number, VLOOKUP will return an error. Double-check and make sure all of the data is formatted correctly.
4. Col_index_num doesn’t exist in the table_array
If VLOOKUP is trying to look up a column that doesn't exist in the table_array, it will return an error. Double check and make sure the col_index_num is within the table_array range.
If VLOOKUP is trying to look up a column that doesn't exist in the table_array, it will return an error. Double check and make sure the col_index_num is within the table_array range.
Don't forget to save this for the next time your VLOOKUP function returns an error!
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Follow me @exceldictionary for even more Excel tips and tricks.
And if you never want to forget my excel tips at your desk, check out my shortcut merch and ebooks. bit.ly
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