How to Use XLOOKUP in Excel: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Understanding how to use XLOOKUP in Excel can simplify finding values in a range or table. Essentially, XLOOKUP allows you to search for a value and return a corresponding value from another column. By following a few easy steps, you can master XLOOKUP and boost your Excel skills.

How to Use XLOOKUP in Excel

XLOOKUP is a powerful Excel function that finds a target value in a specified range and returns a related value from another range. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

Step 1: Open your Excel Spreadsheet

Open your Excel file where you want to use XLOOKUP.

Make sure you have your data ready, as this function works best when you already have a column of values you want to search through and another column of corresponding values.

Step 2: Select the Cell for the Formula

Click on the cell where you want the result of the XLOOKUP to appear.

This is essential because this cell is where the returned value will be displayed after the function finds the matching value.

Step 3: Enter the XLOOKUP Formula

Type =XLOOKUP( in the selected cell.

This function is followed by three main arguments: the lookup value, the lookup array, and the return array.

Step 4: Input the Lookup Value

Add the value you want to search for, followed by a comma.

The lookup value can be a specific number, text, or a reference to another cell that contains the value you’re searching for.

Step 5: Define the Lookup Array

Input the range of cells where you want to search for the lookup value, followed by a comma.

This array is the column or row containing the values you’re investigating.

Step 6: Define the Return Array

Input the range of cells that contains the values you want to return, then close the parenthesis.

This array is typically parallel to your lookup array and contains the corresponding data you want to retrieve.

Step 7: Press Enter

Hit Enter on your keyboard to execute the formula.

Your result will appear in the selected cell, showing the corresponding value from the return array.

Once you’ve completed these steps, the XLOOKUP function will automatically find the value you’re looking for and display the corresponding result in the cell you chose.

Tips for Using XLOOKUP in Excel

• Make sure your lookup and return arrays are the same size for best results.
• Use the optional arguments in XLOOKUP, such as if_not_found, to handle errors gracefully.
• Familiarize yourself with the match_mode and search_mode parameters for more advanced searches.
• Remember that XLOOKUP can search both vertically and horizontally.
• Practice using XLOOKUP with different datasets to build your confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is XLOOKUP?

XLOOKUP is an Excel function that searches a range or array and returns the corresponding value from another range or array.

How is XLOOKUP different from VLOOKUP?

Unlike VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP can search both vertically and horizontally and doesn’t require the lookup value to be in the first column.

Can I use XLOOKUP in older versions of Excel?

XLOOKUP is available in Excel for Microsoft 365 and Excel 2019. It’s not available in earlier versions.

What happens if the lookup value is not found?

If the lookup value isn’t found, you can specify a default value using the if_not_found argument to avoid errors.

Can XLOOKUP handle multiple criteria?

Yes, XLOOKUP can handle multiple criteria by nesting other functions like CONCATENATE or combining ranges with Boolean logic.

Summary

1. Open your Excel Spreadsheet.
2. Select the Cell for the Formula.
3. Enter the XLOOKUP Formula.
4. Input the Lookup Value.
5. Define the Lookup Array.
6. Define the Return Array.
7. Press Enter.

Conclusion

Mastering XLOOKUP in Excel can transform your data analysis capabilities, making it easier to find and retrieve data efficiently. By following the simple steps outlined, you can quickly integrate this function into your workflow. Remember to experiment with different datasets and use the additional tips to enhance your understanding.

Whether you’re dealing with large datasets or just want to simplify your lookup tasks, XLOOKUP is a game-changer. Continue exploring other Excel functions and features to keep boosting your skills. Happy Excel-ing!