Charles Nichols

Ah, the XLOOKUP function in Excel, a tool of great utility and convenience. It allows one to search and retrieve data with great precision and ease.

Dear reader, Let us first examine the structure of this function, for knowledge of its composition is essential to its proper use. The XLOOKUP function is composed of five elements:

• The lookup_value, which is the data one seeks
• The lookup_array, which is the range of cells containing the data to be searched
• The return_array, which is the range of cells containing the data to be retrieved
• The default_value, an optional element, but one that can prove useful, to correct any errors.
• The match_type, another optional element, which determines whether the search is to be exact or approximate

Now that we have examined the composition of the XLOOKUP function, let us see it in action.

Example 1: Searching for an Exact Match

In this example, we will use the XLOOKUP function to search for an exact match of the value “Mary” in a range of cells that contains a list of names. The data that we want to return if a match is found is the corresponding email address.

The lookup_value is “Mary”
The lookup_array is A1:B10
The return_array is B1:B10

=XLOOKUP(“Mary”,A1:B10,B1:B10)

Example 2: Searching for an Approximate Match

In this example, we will use the XLOOKUP function to search for an approximate match of the value “Veridian Green” in a range of cells that contains a list of colors. The data that we want to return if a match is found is the corresponding price.

The lookup_value is “Veridian Green”
The lookup_array is A1:B10
The return_array is B1:B10

=XLOOKUP(“Veridian Green”,A1:B10,B1:B10,0)

As one can see, the XLOOKUP function can be used to great effect in the search and retrieval of data. With its many capabilities and ease of use, it is a valuable tool for any individual seeking to organize and streamline their work.

Signed,

Charles