Index number in excel

ИНДЕКС (функция ИНДЕКС)

Функция ИНДЕКС возвращает значение или ссылку на значение из таблицы или диапазона.

Функцию ИНДЕКС можно использовать двумя способами:

Если вы хотите возвращать значение указанной ячейки или массива ячеек, см. раздел Форма массива.

Если требуется возвращать ссылку на указанные ячейки, см. раздел Ссылочная форма.

Форма массива

Описание

Возвращает значение элемента в таблице или массиве, выбранное по индексам номеров строк и столбцов.

Если первый аргумент функции ИНДЕКС является константной массива, используйте форму массива.

Синтаксис

ИНДЕКС(массив; номер_строки; [номер_столбца])

Форма массива функции INDEX имеет следующие аргументы:

массив. Обязательный аргумент. Диапазон ячеек или константа массива.

Если массив содержит только одну строку или столбец, соответствующий аргумент номер_строки или номер_столбца является необязательным.

Если массив содержит более одной строки и более одного столбца и используется только номер_строки или номер_столбца, ИНДЕКС возвращает массив всей строки или столбца в массиве.

Номер_строки Обязательный, если column_num отсутствует. Выбирает строку в массиве, из которой требуется возвратить значение. Если номер_строки опущен, требуется номер_столбца.

Номер_столбца — необязательный аргумент. Выбирает столбец в массиве, из которого требуется возвратить значение. Если номер_столбца опущен, требуется номер_строки.

Замечания

Если используются аргументы номер_строки и номер_столбца, функция ИНДЕКС возвращает значение в ячейке на пересечении номеров_строки и номера_столбца.

row_num и column_num должны указывать на ячейку в массиве; в противном случае ИНДЕКС возвращает #ССЫЛКА! ошибку «#ЗНАЧ!».

Если задать для row_num или column_num значение 0 (ноль), ИНДЕКС возвращает массив значений для всего столбца или строки соответственно. Чтобы использовать значения, возвращаемые в виде массива, введите функцию ИНДЕКС как формулу массива.

Примечание: Если у вас есть текущая версия Microsoft 365, вы можете ввести формулу в верхнюю левую ячейку выходного диапазона, а затем нажать клавишу ВВОД, чтобы подтвердить формулу как формулу динамического массива. В противном случае формулу необходимо ввести как устаревшую формулу массива, сначала выбрав выходной диапазон, введите формулу в верхнюю левую ячейку выходного диапазона, а затем нажмите CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER для подтверждения. Excel автоматически вставляет фигурные скобки в начале и конце формулы. Дополнительные сведения о формулах массива см. в статье Использование формул массива: рекомендации и примеры.

Примеры

Пример 1

В этих примерах функция ИНДЕКС используется для поиска значения ячейки, находящейся на пересечении заданных строки и столбца.

Скопируйте образец данных из следующей таблицы и вставьте их в ячейку A1 нового листа Excel. Чтобы отобразить результаты формул, выделите их и нажмите клавишу F2, а затем — ВВОД.

Значение ячейки на пересечении второй строки и второго столбца в диапазоне A2:B3.

Значение ячейки на пересечении второй строки и первого столбца в диапазоне A2:B3.

Пример 2

В этом примере функция ИНДЕКС используется в формуле массива для поиска значений двух заданных ячеек в массиве с диапазоном 2 x 2.

Примечание: Если у вас есть текущая версия Microsoft 365, вы можете ввести формулу в верхнюю левую ячейку выходного диапазона, а затем нажать клавишу ВВОД, чтобы подтвердить формулу как формулу динамического массива. В противном случае формулу необходимо ввести как устаревшую формулу массива, сначала выбрав две пустые ячейки, введите формулу в верхнюю левую ячейку выходного диапазона, а затем нажмите CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER для подтверждения. Excel автоматически вставляет фигурные скобки в начале и конце формулы. Дополнительные сведения о формулах массива см. в статье Использование формул массива: рекомендации и примеры.

Значение ячейки на пересечении первой строки и второго столбца в массиве. Массив содержит значения 1 и 2 в первой строке и значения 3 и 4 во второй строке.

Значение ячейки на пересечении второй строки и второго столбца в массиве, указанном выше.

Справочная форма

Описание

Возвращает ссылку на ячейку, расположенную на пересечении указанной строки и указанного столбца. Если ссылка состоит из несмежных выборок, вы можете выбрать выборку для поиска.

Синтаксис

ИНДЕКС(ссылка; номер_строки; [номер_столбца]; [номер_области])

Справочная форма функции ИНДЕКС имеет следующие аргументы:

ссылка — обязательный аргумент. Ссылка на один или несколько диапазонов ячеек.

Если вы вводите несмежный диапазон для ссылки, заключите ссылку в круглые скобки.

Если каждая область в ссылке содержит только одну строку или столбец, аргумент номер_строки или номер_столбца соответственно является необязательным. Например, для ссылки на единственную строку нужно использовать формулу ИНДЕКС(ссылка,,номер_столбца).

Номер_строки Обязательный аргумент. Номер строки в диапазоне, заданном аргументом «ссылка», из которого требуется возвратить ссылку.

Номер_столбца — необязательный аргумент. Номер столбца в диапазоне, заданном аргументом «ссылка», из которого требуется возвратить ссылку.

area_num Необязательный. Выбирает диапазон в ссылке, из которого возвращается пересечение row_num и column_num. Первая выбранная или введенная область имеет номер 1, вторая — 2 и так далее. Если номер_области опущен, ИНДЕКС использует область 1. Перечисленные здесь области должны располагаться на одном листе. Если вы укажете области, которые не находятся на одном листе друг с другом, это вызовет ошибку #ЗНАЧ! ошибку «#ВЫЧИС!». Если вам нужно использовать диапазоны, расположенные на разных листах друг от друга, рекомендуется использовать форму массива функции ИНДЕКС, а для вычисления диапазона, из которого состоит массив, использовать другую функцию. Например, вы можете использовать функцию ВЫБОР, чтобы вычислить, какой диапазон будет использоваться.

Например, если ссылка описывает ячейки (A1:B4,D1:E4,G1:H4), номер_области 1 – это диапазон A1:B4, номер_области 2 – это диапазон D1:E4, а номер_области 3 – диапазон G1:H4.

Замечания

После того, как ссылка и area_num выбрали конкретный диапазон, row_num и column_num выбирают конкретную ячейку: row_num 1 — это первая строка в диапазоне, column_num 1 — это первый столбец и так далее. Ссылка, возвращаемая INDEX, представляет собой пересечение row_num и column_num.

Если вы установите номер_строки или номер_столбца равным 0 (ноль), ИНДЕКС возвращает ссылку для всего столбца или строки соответственно.

row_num, column_num и area_num должны указывать на ячейку в пределах ссылки; в противном случае ИНДЕКС возвращает #ССЫЛКА! ошибку «#ЗНАЧ!». Если номер_строки и номер_столбца опущены, ИНДЕКС возвращает область в ссылке, указанную номером_области.

Результатом вычисления функции ИНДЕКС является ссылка, которая интерпретируется в качестве таковой другими функциями. В зависимости от формулы значение, возвращаемое функцией ИНДЕКС, может использоваться как ссылка или как значение. Например, формула ЯЧЕЙКА(«ширина»;ИНДЕКС(A1:B2;1;2)) эквивалентна формуле ЯЧЕЙКА(«ширина»;B1). Функция ЯЧЕЙКА использует значение, возвращаемое функцией ИНДЕКС, как ссылку. С другой стороны, такая формула, как 2*ИНДЕКС(A1:B2;1;2), преобразует значение, возвращаемое функцией ИНДЕКС, в число в ячейке B1.

Примеры

Скопируйте образец данных из следующей таблицы и вставьте их в ячейку A1 нового листа Excel. Чтобы отобразить результаты формул, выделите их и нажмите клавишу F2, а затем — клавишу Enter.

Источник

INDEX function

The INDEX function returns a value or the reference to a value from within a table or range.

There are two ways to use the INDEX function:

If you want to return the value of a specified cell or array of cells, see Array form.

If you want to return a reference to specified cells, see Reference form.

Array form

Description

Returns the value of an element in a table or an array, selected by the row and column number indexes.

Use the array form if the first argument to INDEX is an array constant.

Syntax

INDEX(array, row_num, [column_num])

The array form of the INDEX function has the following arguments:

array Required. A range of cells or an array constant.

If array contains only one row or column, the corresponding row_num or column_num argument is optional.

If array has more than one row and more than one column, and only row_num or column_num is used, INDEX returns an array of the entire row or column in array.

row_num Required, unless column_num is present. Selects the row in array from which to return a value. If row_num is omitted, column_num is required.

column_num Optional. Selects the column in array from which to return a value. If column_num is omitted, row_num is required.

If both the row_num and column_num arguments are used, INDEX returns the value in the cell at the intersection of row_num and column_num.

row_num and column_num must point to a cell within array; otherwise, INDEX returns a #REF! error.

If you set row_num or column_num to 0 (zero), INDEX returns the array of values for the entire column or row, respectively. To use values returned as an array, enter the INDEX function as an array formula.

Note: If you have a current version of Microsoft 365, then you can input the formula in the top-left-cell of the output range, then press ENTER to confirm the formula as a dynamic array formula. Otherwise, the formula must be entered as a legacy array formula by first selecting the output range, input the formula in the top-left-cell of the output range, then press CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER to confirm it. Excel inserts curly brackets at the beginning and end of the formula for you. For more information on array formulas, see Guidelines and examples of array formulas.

Examples

Example 1

These examples use the INDEX function to find the value in the intersecting cell where a row and a column meet.

Copy the example data in the following table, and paste it in cell A1 of a new Excel worksheet. For formulas to show results, select them, press F2, and then press Enter.

Value at the intersection of the second row and second column in the range A2:B3.

Value at the intersection of the second row and first column in the range A2:B3.

Example 2

This example uses the INDEX function in an array formula to find the values in two cells specified in a 2×2 array.

Note: If you have a current version of Microsoft 365, then you can input the formula in the top-left-cell of the output range, then press ENTER to confirm the formula as a dynamic array formula. Otherwise, the formula must be entered as a legacy array formula by first selecting two blank cells, input the formula in the top-left-cell of the output range, then press CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER to confirm it. Excel inserts curly brackets at the beginning and end of the formula for you. For more information on array formulas, see Guidelines and examples of array formulas.

Value found in the first row, second column in the array. The array contains 1 and 2 in the first row and 3 and 4 in the second row.

Value found in the second row, second column in the array (same array as above).

Reference form

Description

Returns the reference of the cell at the intersection of a particular row and column. If the reference is made up of non-adjacent selections, you can pick the selection to look in.

Syntax

INDEX(reference, row_num, [column_num], [area_num])

The reference form of the INDEX function has the following arguments:

reference Required. A reference to one or more cell ranges.

If you are entering a non-adjacent range for the reference, enclose reference in parentheses.

If each area in reference contains only one row or column, the row_num or column_num argument, respectively, is optional. For example, for a single row reference, use INDEX(reference,,column_num).

row_num Required. The number of the row in reference from which to return a reference.

column_num Optional. The number of the column in reference from which to return a reference.

area_num Optional. Selects a range in reference from which to return the intersection of row_num and column_num. The first area selected or entered is numbered 1, the second is 2, and so on. If area_num is omitted, INDEX uses area 1. The areas listed here must all be located on one sheet. If you specify areas that are not on the same sheet as each other, it will cause a #VALUE! error. If you need to use ranges that are located on different sheets from each other, it is recommended that you use the array form of the INDEX function, and use another function to calculate the range that makes up the array. For example, you could use the CHOOSE function to calculate which range will be used.

For example, if Reference describes the cells (A1:B4,D1:E4,G1:H4), area_num 1 is the range A1:B4, area_num 2 is the range D1:E4, and area_num 3 is the range G1:H4.

After reference and area_num have selected a particular range, row_num and column_num select a particular cell: row_num 1 is the first row in the range, column_num 1 is the first column, and so on. The reference returned by INDEX is the intersection of row_num and column_num.

If you set row_num or column_num to 0 (zero), INDEX returns the reference for the entire column or row, respectively.

row_num, column_num, and area_num must point to a cell within reference; otherwise, INDEX returns a #REF! error. If row_num and column_num are omitted, INDEX returns the area in reference specified by area_num.

The result of the INDEX function is a reference and is interpreted as such by other formulas. Depending on the formula, the return value of INDEX may be used as a reference or as a value. For example, the formula CELL(«width»,INDEX(A1:B2,1,2)) is equivalent to CELL(«width»,B1). The CELL function uses the return value of INDEX as a cell reference. On the other hand, a formula such as 2*INDEX(A1:B2,1,2) translates the return value of INDEX into the number in cell B1.

Examples

Copy the example data in the following table, and paste it in cell A1 of a new Excel worksheet. For formulas to show results, select them, press F2, and then press Enter.

Источник

Excel INDEX Function | Formula Examples + FREE Video

Excel INDEX Function (Examples + Video)

When to use Excel INDEX Function

Excel INDEX function can be used when you want to fetch the value from a tabular data and you have the row number and column number of the data point. For example, in the example below, you can use the INDEX function to get the marks of ‘Tom’ in Physics when you know the row number and the column number in the data set.

What it Returns

It returns the value from a table for the specified row number and column number.

Syntax

=INDEX (array, row_num, [col_num])
=INDEX (array, row_num, [col_num], [area_num])

INDEX function has 2 syntax. The first one is used in most cases, however, in case of three-way lookups, the second one is used (covered in Example 5).

Input Arguments

• array – a range of cells or an array constant.
• row_num – the row number from which the value is to be fetched.
• [col_num] – the column number from which the value is to be fetched. Although this is an optional argument, but if row_num is not provided, it needs to be given.
• [area_num] – (Optional) If array argument is made up of multiple ranges, this number would be used to select the reference from all the ranges.

Additional Notes (Boring Stuff.. But Important to Know)

• If the row number or the column number is 0, it returns the values of the entire row or column respectively.
• If INDEX function is used in front of a cell reference (such as A1:) it returns a cell reference instead of a value (see examples below).
• Most widely used along with the MATCH function.
• Unlike VLOOKUP, INDEX function can return a value from the left of the lookup value.
• INDEX function have two forms – Array form and the Reference form
  • ‘Array form’ is where you fetch a value based on row and column number from a given table.
  • ‘Reference form’ is where there are multiple tables, and you use the area_num argument to select the table and then fetch a value within it using the row and column number (see live example below).

Excel INDEX Function – Examples

Here are six examples of using Excel INDEX Function.

Example 1 – Finding Tom’s Marks in Physics (a two-way lookup)

Suppose you have a dataset as shown below:

To find Tom’s marks in Physics, use the below formula:

This INDEX formula specifies the array as $B$3:$E$10 which has the marks for all the subjects. Then it uses the row number (3) and column number (2) to fetch Tom’s marks in Physics.

Example 2 – Making the LOOKUP Value Dynamic using MATCH Function

It may not always be possible to specify the row number and the column number manually. You may have a huge data set, or you may want to make it dynamic so that it automatically identifies the name and/or subject specified in cells and give the correct result.

Something as shown below:

This can be done using a combination of the INDEX and the MATCH function.

Here is the formula that will make the lookup values dynamic:

In the above formula, instead of hard-coding the row number and the column number, MATCH function is used to make it dynamic.

• Dynamic Row Number is given by the following part of the formula – MATCH($G$5,$A$3:$A$10,0). It scans the name of students and identifies the lookup value ($G$5 in this case). It then returns the row number of the lookup value in the dataset. For example, if the lookup value is Matt, it’ll return 1, if it is Bob, it’ll return 2 and so on.
• Dynamic Column Number is given by the following part of the formula – MATCH($H$4,$B$2:$E$2,0). It scans the subject names and identifies the lookup value ($H$4 in this case). It then returns the column number of the lookup value in the dataset. For example, if the lookup value is Math, it’ll return 1, if it is Physics, it’ll return 2 and so on.

Example 3 – Using Drop Down Lists as Lookup Values

In the above example, we have to manually enter the data. That could be time-consuming and error-prone, especially if you have a huge list of lookup values.

A good idea in such cases is to create a drop down list of the lookup values (in this case, it could be student names and subjects) and then simply choose from the list. Based on the selection, the formula would automatically update the result.

Something as shown below:

This makes a good dashboard component as you can have a huge data set with hundreds of students at the back end, but the end user (let’s say a teacher) can quickly get the marks of a student in a subject by simply making the selections from the drop down.

How to make this:

The formula used in this case is the same used in Example 2.

The lookup values have been converted into drop-down lists.

Here are the steps to create the Excel drop down list:

• Select the cell in which you want the drop-down list. In this example, in G4, we want the student names.
• Go to Data –> Data Tools –> Data Validation.
• In the Data Validation Dialogue box, within the settings tab, select List from the Allow drop-down.
• In the source, select $A$3:$A$10
• Click OK.

Now you’ll have the drop-down list in cell G5. Similarly, you can create one in H4 for the subjects.

Example 4 – Return Values from an Entire Row/Column

In the above examples, we’ve used Excel INDEX function to do a 2-way lookup and get a single value.

Now, what if you want to get all the marks of a student. This can enable you to find the maximum/minimum score of that student, or the total marks scored in all subjects.

In simple English, you want to first get the entire row of scores for a student (let’s say Bob) and then within those values identify the highest score or the total of all the scores.

Here is the trick.

In Excel INDEX Function, when you enter the column number as 0, it will return the values of that entire row.

So the formula for this would be:

Now this formula. if used as is, would return the #VALUE! error. While it displays the error, in the backend, it returns an array that has all the scores for Tom – <57,77,91,91>.

If you select the formula in the edit mode and press F9, you’ll be able to see the array it returns (as shown below):

Similarly, based on what the lookup value is, when the column number is specified as 0 (or is left blank), it returns all the values in the row for the lookup value

Now to calculate the total score obtained by Tom, we can simply use the above formula within the SUM function.

On similar lines, to calculate the highest score, we can use MAX/LARGE and to calculate minimum, we can use MIN/SMALL.

Example 5 – Three Way Lookup Using INDEX/MATCH

Excel INDEX function is built to handle three-way lookups.

What is a three-way lookup?

In the above examples, we’ve used one table with scores for students in different subjects. This is an example of a two-way lookup as we use two variables to fetch the score (student’s name and the subject).

Now, suppose in a year, a student has three different levels of exams, Unit Test, Midterm, and Final Examination (that’s what I had when I was a student).

A three-way lookup would be the ability to get a student’s marks for a specified subject from the specified level of exam. This would make it a three-way lookup as there are three variables (student’s name, subject’s name, and the level of examination).

Here is an example of a three-way lookup:

In the example above, apart from selecting the student’s name and subject name, you can also select the level of exam. Based on the level of exam, it returns the matching value from one of the three tables.

Here is the formula used in cell H4:

Let’s break down this formula to understand how it works.

This formula takes four arguments. INDEX is one of those functions in Excel that has more than one syntax.

=INDEX (array, row_num, [col_num])
=INDEX (array, row_num, [col_num], [area_num])

So far in all the example above, we have used the first syntax, but to do a three-way lookup, we need to use the second syntax.

Now let’s see each part of the formula based on the second syntax.

• array – ($B$3:$E$7,$B$11:$E$15,$B$19:$E$23) : Instead of using a single array, in this case, we have used three arrays within parenthesis.
• row_num – MATCH($G$4,$A$3:$A$7,0) : MATCH function is used to find the position of the student’s name in cell $G$4 in the list of student’s name.
• col_num – MATCH($H$3,$B$2:$E$2,0): MATCH function is used to find the position of the subject name in cell $H$3 in the list of subject’s name.
• [area_num] – IF($H$2=”Unit Test”,1,IF($H$2=”Midterm”,2,3)) : The area number value tells the INDEX function which array to select. In this example, we have three arrays in the first argument. If you select Unit Test from the drop-down, the IF function returns 1 and the INDEX functions select 1st array from the three arrays (which is $B$3:$E$7).

Example 6 – Creating a Reference Using the INDEX Function (Dynamic Named Ranges)

This is one wild use of the Excel INDEX function.

Let’s take a simple example.

I have a list of names as shown below:

Now I can use a simple INDEX function to get the last name on the list.

Here is the formula:

This function simply counts the number of cells that are not empty and returns the last item from this list (it works only when there are no blanks in the list).

Now, what here comes the magic.

If you put the formula in front of a cell reference, the formula would return a cell reference of the matching value (instead of the value itself).

You would expect the above formula to return =A2:”Josh” (where Josh is the last value in the list). However, it returns =A2:A9 and hence you get an array of names as shown below:

One practical example where this technique can be helpful is in creating dynamic named ranges.

That’s it in this tutorial. I’ve tried to cover major examples of using the Excel INDEX function. If you would like to see more examples added to this list, let me know in the comments section.

Note: I’ve tried my best to proof read this tutorial, but in case you find any errors or spelling mistakes, please let me know 🙂

Excel INDEX Function – Video Tutorial

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Источник

The INDEX function in Excel helps extract the value of a cell, which is within a specified array (range) and, at the intersection of the stated row and column numbers. In other words, the function goes to the cell (within a particular range) whose position is specified, picks its value, and returns it as the output. The INDEX function can also extract an array of values from a dataset.

For example, a worksheet contains the names of continents and the corresponding countries. The entries, typed in Excel (without the double quotation marks), are listed as follows:

Column A

• Cell A1 contains “Asia.”
• Cell A2 contains “Africa.”
• Cell A3 contains “Europe.”
• Cell A4 contains “North America.”

Column B

• Cell B1 contains “India.”
• Cell B2 contains “Nigeria.”
• Cell B3 contains “France.”
• Cell B4 contains “Canada.”

Enter the formula “=INDEX(A1:B4,3,2)” in cell C1. Press the “Enter” key and the output is “France” (without the double quotation marks).

First, the INDEX excel function goes to the range A1:B4. From this range, it fetches the value of the cell, which is at the intersection of the third row (row 3) and the second column (column B). This cell is B3 and its value is “France.”

The INDEX function can return the following values:

• The value at the intersection of the specified row and column numbers
• The value within a table or a named range whose row and column numbers are specified
• The value within non-adjacent ranges whose row and column numbers are specified

The INDEX function in Excel is useful when the dataset is large and one knows the position of the cell from which the value needs to be extracted.

The INDEX function is categorized under the Lookup and Reference functions of Excel.

Syntax of the INDEX Function in Excel

There are two forms of the INDEX function in excel, the array and the reference. The syntax of both forms is shown in the following image.

Let us discuss both forms of the Excel INDEX function one by one.

The Array Form of the INDEX Excel Function

In the array form, the INDEX function fetches the value of a cell within an array or a table. An array can be either a single range of cells (horizontal or vertical) or multiple adjacent ranges. The value of the cell, which is at the intersection of the supplied row and column numbers, is returned.

The INDEX function accepts the following arguments in the array form:

• Array: This can be a range of cells, table, array constant or named rangeName range in Excel is a name given to a range for the future reference. To name a range, first select the range of data and then insert a table to the range, then put a name to the range from the name box on the left-hand side of the window.read more. The cell whose value is to be returned must necessarily be within this array.
• Row_num: This is the row number of the array from which the value is to be returned.
• Column_num: This is the column number of the array from which the value is to be returned.

The arguments “array” and “row_num” are mandatory, while the argument “column_num” is optional.

It is essential to specify either the “row_num” or the “column_num” to extract a value from a one-dimensional array. To extract a value from a two-dimensional array, one needs to specify both, the “row_num” and the “column_num.”

Note 1: A one-dimensional array consists of a single row or a single column. A two-dimensional array consists of multiple rows and columns.

Note 2: If both “row_num” and “column_num” are entered as zeros (or blanks), the “#VALUE!” error is returned. For instance, the formulas “=INDEX(A1:A4,0,0)” and “=INDEX(A1:A4,,)” return the “#VALUE!” error.

Note 3: If the “array” argument consists of a single column, the “column_num” argument can be omitted, but the “row_num” must be supplied to fetch the value. Likewise, if the “array” argument consists of a single row, the “row_num” argument can be omitted, but the “column_num” must be specified to fetch the value.

For instance, in case of a single column, use the formula “=INDEX(array,row_num)” to fetch a value. In case of a single row, use the formula “=INDEX(array,,column_num)” to fetch a value.

The Reference Form of the INDEX Excel Function

In the reference form, the INDEX function fetches the value of a cell within a defined area (array or range). There can be multiple non-adjacent areas in the reference form. In such cases, the particular area, within which the INDEX function should look for the value, can be specified.

The INDEX function in Excel accepts the following arguments in the reference form:

• Reference: This is the area which can either be a single range or multiple non-adjacent ranges. In the case of multiple non-adjacent ranges, use commas to separate the ranges. In addition, all the ranges must be enclosed within parentheses. For instance, the “reference” argument, (A1:C2, C4:D7) implies two areas (arrays or ranges), A1:C2 and C4:D7.
• Row_num: This is the row number of the area from which the value is to be returned.
• Column_num: This is the column number of the area from which the value is to be returned.
• Area_num: This number indicates the area (of the “reference” argument) in which the INDEX function will look for a value. The first area of the “reference” argument is assigned the number 1. The second area is numbered 2 and so on. For instance, if the “reference” argument is (A1:C2, C4:D7, F4:H8) and the “area_num” is 3, the INDEX function looks for the value in the third area of the “reference” argument, i.e., F4:H8.

The arguments “reference” and “row_num” are required, while the arguments “column_num” and “area_num” are optional.

In the following image, the grey box (pointed by the red arrow) shows the different areas (arrays or ranges) of the reference argument. Further, the area numbers of each range are also given.

Note 1: If the “area_num” argument is omitted, the INDEX excel function looks for the value in the first area of the “reference” argument.

Note 2: All the areas stated in the “reference” argument should be located on one worksheet. If the first area is in one worksheet and the second is in another, the INDEX function returns the “#VALUE!” error.

Note 3: The difference between the array and reference forms is that in the former, adjacent ranges are used, while in the latter, non-adjacent ranges are used.

How to use the INDEX Function in Excel?

Let us consider a few examples to understand the working of the INDEX function in Excel.

You can download this INDEX Function Excel Template here – INDEX Function Excel Template

Example #1–Array Form With a One-Dimensional Array

The following image shows the number of employees (column C) working in the different departments (column B) of an organization.

We want to extract the value of cell C7 with the help of the INDEX function. Use the array form with column C as the single array.

The steps to perform the given task are listed as follows:

Step 1: Enter the following formula in cell E2.

“=INDEX(C3:C7,5)”

Step 2: Press the “Enter” key. The output in cell E2 is 4.

Explanation: In the formula entered in step 1, we omitted the “column_num” argument since the array (C3:C7) is a single column. Cell C7 is in the fifth row of the array C3:C7. So, the “row_num” argument is entered as 5.

Hence, the given INDEX formula returns 4, which is the value of row 5 of the range C3:C7.

Example #2–Array Form With a Two-Dimensional Array

The following image shows the total number of employees working in five departments of a multinational corporationA multinational company (MNC) is defined as a business entity that operates in its country of origin and also has a branch abroad. The headquarter usually remains in one country, controlling and coordinating all the international branches.
read more (MNC). The numbers pertain to four years, namely, 2015-2018.

We want to extract the value of cell E5 with the help of the INDEX excel function. Use the array form with the entire dataset (except the headings in row 2) as the array.

The steps to perform the given task are listed as follows:

Step 1: Enter the following formula in cell B9.

“=INDEX(B3:F7,3,4)”

Step 2: Press the “Enter” key. The output in cell B9 is 629.

Explanation: In the preceding formula (entered in step 1), the multiple rows and columns of the dataset are entered as a single array (B3:F7). The INDEX formula returns the value of the cell, which is at the intersection of row 3 and column 4 of the range B3:F7. The cell at this position is cell E5 and its value is 629.

Hence, the output, 629, corresponds to the third row and fourth column of the range B3:F7.

Example #3–Array Form With Row and/or Column Numbers as Zeros

Working on the data of example #2, we want to apply the INDEX function to the entire dataset (B3:F7). Further, observe the output in the following cases:

Case 1: When both arguments “row_num” and “column_num” are zeros

Case 2: When either the “row_num” or the “column_num” is zero

The two cases are discussed as follows:

Case 1: When both row and column numbers are entered as zeros, the INDEX function returns the “#VALUE” error.

Steps to be followed: Enter the formula “=INDEX(B3:F7,0,0)” in cell B9. Press the “Enter” key and the output is the “#VALUE” error. This is shown in the following image.

Conclusion: When multiple rows and columns are used as an array, it is necessary to specify both the row and column numbers to extract a particular cell value. In case, both row and column numbers are entered as zeros, the output is the “#VALUE” error.

Case 2: When either the row or the column number is zero, and the INDEX formula is entered as an array formula, the output is an array of values.

Steps to be followed: Select the blank range B11:B15. Enter the formula “=INDEX(B3:F7,0,1)” in the first cell selected (cell B11). Press the keys “Ctrl+Shift+Enter” together.

The outputs in cells B11, B12, B13, B14, and B15 are “Sales,” “HR,” “Operation,” “Marketing,” and “Finance” respectively. All outputs are obtained (without the double quotation marks) the way they are displayed in the range B3:B7.

Alternatively, select the blank row D11:H11. Enter the formula “=INDEX(B3:F7,3,0)” as an array formula. The output is the array of values of row 5 (of the preceding image). So, the output is “Operation,” “176,” “665,” “629,” and “497” without the double quotation marks.

Conclusion: When either the row or column number is specified while the other is set at zero, the INDEX function returns an array of values. However, in such cases, the INDEX formula must be entered as an array formula.

Moreover, it is essential to select a blank output range prior to entering the INDEX formula. This output range should have as many blank cells as the array of the source dataset.

Note: An array formula is usually completed by pressing the CSE keys (Ctrl+Shift+Enter).

Example #4–Reference Form With Multiple Two-Dimensional Arrays

The following image contains three datasets which display the number of employees working in the different departments of an MNC. The first dataset (B2:E7) shows the figures for the years 2015-2017. The second (D9:F12) and third datasets (C14:E18) show the figures for the years 2015 and 2016.

Use the reference form of the INDEX excel function to extract the value of cell F11. Further, categorize the three datasets into three areas which exclude the top row containing the headings.

The steps to perform the preceding tasks are listed as follows:

Step 1: Enter the following formula in cell B20.

“=INDEX((B3:E7,D10:F12,C15:E18),2,3,2)”

Step 2: Press the “Enter” key. The output is 665, as shown in the following image.

Explanation: In the preceding formula (entered in step 1), the three datasets (given in the question of this example) have been categorized into three areas of the “reference” argument. These areas are B3:E7, D10:F12, and C15:E18. The headings have been excluded from these areas.

Further, the INDEX function looks for a value in the second area (D10:F12). This is because the “area_num” argument is 2. The arguments “row_num” and “column_num” are 2 and 3 respectively. So, the INDEX function returns the value of the cell, which is at the intersection of the second row and the third column in the area D10:F12. This is cell F11.

Hence, the output of the INDEX formula is 665.

The Properties Applicable to Both Forms of the INDEX Function

The properties applicable to both the array and reference forms are listed as follows:

a. If both the arguments “row_num” and “column_num” are entered as zeros, the INDEX excel function returns the “#VALUE!” error.

b. To fetch a value from a single column array, use the following formulas:

• “=INDEX(array,row_num)” in the array form
• “=INDEX((reference),row_num,,area_num)” in the reference form

To fetch a value from a single row array, use the following formulas:

• “=INDEX(array,,column_num)” in the array form
• “=INDEX((reference),,col_num,area_num)” in the reference form

c. If all the column values of an array are required vertically, specify the “column_num” and set the “row_num” at zero. Likewise, if all the row values of an array are required horizontally, specify the “row_num” and set the “column_num” at zero. In both cases, select a blank output range prior to entering the INDEX formula. Moreover, press the keys “Ctrl+Shift+Enter” to complete the formula.

d. The arguments “row_num,” “column_num,” and “area_num” should refer to a cell within the defined array or reference. If not, the INDEX function returns the “#REF!” error.

Note: In pointer “c,” the blank output range can be selected vertically or horizontally depending on whether a vertical or a horizontal array is required.

Further, the number of blank cells (of the output range) must be equal to the cells of the particular row or column array (which is being copied) of the source dataset.

The INDEX With Other Functions of Excel

The INDEX function in excel can be used with several other functions of Excel in the following ways:

a. The INDEX function is used in combination with functions like SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, and MAX to create dynamic ranges. For instance, the formula “AVERAGE(C3:INDEX(C3:C7,3))” returns the average of cells C3, C4, and C5. This is because the formula “INDEX(C3:C7,3)” returns a reference to cell C5. So, the resulting formula becomes “AVERAGE(C3:C5).” Moreover, with a change in the “row_num” argument of the INDEX function, the range of the AVERAGE function changes. This results in a change in the output obtained.

b. The INDEX and MATCH The MATCH function looks for a specific value and returns its relative position in a given range of cells. The output is the first position found for the given value. Being a lookup and reference function, it works for both an exact and approximate match. For example, if the range A11:A15 consists of the numbers 2, 9, 8, 14, 32, the formula “MATCH(8,A11:A15,0)” returns 3. This is because the number 8 is at the third position.
read more functions are used together to perform left lookups. This combination of the INDEX and MATCH functions overcomes the limitations of the VLOOKUP function of Excel. For instance, limitations like compulsory sorting of data, restricted size of the lookup value, decreased speed of Excel, and so on are eliminated.

c. The INDEX function can be used with the COUNTA functionThe COUNTA function is an inbuilt statistical excel function that counts the number of non-blank cells (not empty) in a cell range or the cell reference. For example, cells A1 and A3 contain values but, cell A2 is empty. The formula “=COUNTA(A1,A2,A3)” returns 2.
read more to extract the value of the last used cell of a dataset. With a change in the value of the last used cell, the output updates on its own.

Note 1: Dynamic ranges automatically update with the addition or deletion of data.

Note 2: Usually, the INDEX function returns the value of a cell. However, when a cell referenceCell reference in excel is referring the other cells to a cell to use its values or properties. For instance, if we have data in cell A2 and want to use that in cell A1, use =A2 in cell A1, and this will copy the A2 value in A1.read more and colon (:) precede the INDEX function, it returns a cell reference. This can be observed in the AVERAGE and INDEX formula of pointer “a.”

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the INDEX Function in Excel?

The INDEX function in Excel provides the value of a cell within a selected range against a given row and column. For example, the formula = INDEX(“Employee ID”,row_num,[column_num]) will return the Employee ID 27 against the given row number 5 and column number 3.

Using the INDEX function, we can find the value at the intersection of a specific row and column. The INDEX function in Excel is present under the Microsoft Excel Lookup and Reference function.

Key Highlights

• The INDEX function in Excel helps to find the information within a data range, where it looks up values by both columns and rows.
• It looks up the value of a cell at the intersection of a given row and column.
• We use the INDEX function in Excel with the MATCH function more commonly. The combination of the INDEX and MATCH functions is an alternative to the VLOOKUP function, which is more powerful & flexible.
• We can use the INDEX function in Excel to fetch individual values or entire rows and columns.

INDEX Function in Excel Syntax

There are two types of the INDEX function in Excel:

#1 Array Form

We use the Array INDEX form when the cell we refer to is within a single range of the data table, e.g., A3:C7.

To understand better, refer to the below image-

Syntax-

= INDEX (array, row_num, [column_num])

#2 Reference Form

We use this INDEX form when the cell that we are referring to is within multiple cell ranges, e.g., (A7:C1,A12:C14,A16:C19)

Refer to the below image-

Syntax-

=INDEX (reference,row_num,[col_num],[area_num])

Explanation of the Syntax

array:

It is a compulsory or required argument that indicates the range or array of cells we want to look up

Note: If there are multiple cell ranges in the data table, it is called a reference  where all the cell ranges(areas) are separated by a comma and with closed brackets

row_num:

It is a compulsory or required argument that indicates the row number against which we want to fetch the value.

Note: Excel considers the row_num argument optional if only one row exists in an array or cell range.

col_num:

It is a compulsory or required argument that indicates the column number against which we want to fetch the value.

Note: Excel considers the col_num argument optional if only one column exists in an array or cell range.

area_num:

It is an optional argument. If the desired value is present in multiple cell ranges in the data table, the area_num indicates the cell range to use.

Note: If there is no value in area_num, then by default, the INDEX Function in Excel considers the first area as the area number.

How to Use the INDEX Function in Excel?

To understand the usage of the INDEX function, consider the below-given examples.

You can download this INDEX Function in Excel Template here – INDEX Function in Excel Template

ARRAY FORM

Example #1:

The table contains the name of Employees of a company, their Employee ID, Gender, and Age. We want to find the Employee ID of Methos using the INDEX function.

Solution:

We will apply the INDEX formula in cell B16 to get the Employee ID of Methos.

Step 1: Click on the Insert Function (fx) option under the Formulas section of the Excel toolbar.

An Insert Function dialog box appears.

Step 2: Type INDEX in the dialog box’s Search for a function option. And double click the INDEX option from the list.

A Select Arguments dialog box shows the two types of INDEX functions: one for array and the other for reference.

Step 3: Select the array formula, as we have only one data range, and click OK.

A Function Arguments dialog box opens with options Array, row_num, and column_num.

Step 4: Enter the cell range (A7:D13) that contains the lookup value in the Array argument

Note: Do not select the column headings

Step 5: Enter the row number(5) that contains the lookup value in the row_num argument.

Step 6: Enter the column number(2) that contains the lookup value in the Col_num argument.

Step 7: Click OK to get the below result

The Index function will return the value of the 5th row and 2nd column, i.e., Employee ID 333.

Example #2

The table below shows the Batch ID of Clothing products manufactured by different industries. We want to find the Batch ID of products manufactured by Entech Co. Ltd.

Solution:

Step 1: Write Entech Co. Ltd. in cell A16 

Step 2: Place the cursor in cell B16 and enter the formula,

=INDEX(A7:D13,5,4)

Explanation:

A7:D13: It is the cell range that contains data about Entech Co. Ltd.

5,4:  The lookup value- Entech Co. Ltd. is in the 5th row of the selected cell range with Batch ID in the 4th column.

Therefore, we write 5 & 4, respectively, in the formula.

Step 3: Press the Enter key to get the below result

The INDEX function with Array Form gives the Batch ID of 205 for products manufactured by Entech Co. Ltd.

Example #3

The table below shows 4 different caterers with snacks they supplied and invoice numbers for their respective bills. Here, we want to find the invoice number for the bill of the snacks supplied by Hungritos.

Solution:

Step 1: Write Hungritos in cell A13

Step 2: Place the cursor in cell B13 and enter the formula,

=INDEX(A7:D10,1,3)

Explanation:

A7:D10- It is the cell range that contains the data of Hingritos.

Note: We do not select the headings of the table.

1,3- The lookup value- Hingritos is in the 1st row of the selected range with invoice no. in the 3rd column. Therefore, we write 1 & 3, respectively, in the formula.

Step 3:  Press the Enter key to get the below result

The INDEX function returns invoice no. 51 for snacks provided by Hungritos.

REFERENCE FORM

Example #1

The table below shows three different tables with Employee Name, Employee ID, Gender, Age, and Department. We want to find the Employee ID of Maria using the INDEX function in Excel.

Solution:

Here, we will use the Reference Form of Excel since there are three different data tables.

Step 1: Write Maria in cell E7

Step 2: Place the cursor in cell F7 and type =INDEX(

When we type the above, it displays two arguments, as shown in the image below

Step 3: Enter the formula,

=INDEX((A7:C13,A16:C18,A22:C23),2,2,2)

• Row_num: It is the row against which we want to fetch the Employee ID of Maria present in table 2; therefore, we enter row number(2), the intersection will occur at the 2nd row of the table
• Col_num: It is the column against which we want to fetch the value, i.e., 2, the intersection will occur at the 2nd column of the 2nd table
• Area_num: It indicates the area(table) which contains the details of Maria, i.e., table 2. Thus, we enter the Area_num as number 2 here.

Step 4: Press the Enter key to get the below output

The INDEX function in Excel returns Employee ID of Maria as 627.

Example #2

The table below shows sports items sold by a store with their prices. We want to find the number of Volleyballs sold by the store given the row number and column number.

Solution:

Step 1: Write the desired row and column numbers in cells E7 and F7, respectively.

Step 2: Place the cursor in cell G7 and enter the formula,

=INDEX((A7:C10,A12:C14,A16:C19),2,3,3)

The table above has three different areas- area 1, area 2, and area 3. Our desired item, a Volleyball, is in the third area. Therefore, we write the number 3 at the end.

Step 3: Press the Enter key to give the below result.

Things to Remember

• The INDEX function in Excel returns #VALUE! Error if row_num/ column_num is not mentioned in the formula or given as 0.
• The INDEX function returns #VALUE! error if the values for row_num, col_num, or area_num are non-numeric.
• The INDEX function in Excel returns #REF! Error if the value entered for row_num exceeds the number of rows present in the data table
• The INDEX function returns #REF! Error if the value entered for column_num exceeds the number of columns present in the data table
• The INDEX function in Excel returns #REF! Error if we provide a value for area_num greater than the number of areas in the cell range.
• If we give (refer) the area_num in the INDEX Formula from another sheet, the Index Function in Excel returns #VALUE! Error. It should represent the table present in the same sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1) What is the use of INDEX ()?

Answer: With the INDEX (), we can find the index position of an element or character in an item string. It gives the lowest possible index of the specified element in the list. If the provided item is not in the list, the INDEX function in Excel returns a ValueError.

Q2) What is the INDEX formula?

Answer: The INDEX formula for the Array form is

=INDEX(array, row_num, [col_num]). 

The INDEX formula for Reference form is =INDEX(reference,row_num,[column_num],[area_num]). 

The array argument specifies the cell range we want to look up. If there are multiple cell ranges in the data table, we separate them using a comma and close them with brackets; row_num indicates the row number against which we want to fetch the value; col_num indicates the column number against which we want to fetch the value; area_num indicates the range to use if there are multiple areas(tables).

Q3) What is the purpose of the INDEX and MATCH functions?

The INDEX function provides the value of a parameter based on the row and column numbers. The MATCH function gives the position of a cell in a column or a row. Combining the INDEX and MATCH functions provides a cell value based on horizontal and vertical criteria.

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