Google Sheets offers a wealth of features, and one of the most valuable is VLOOKUP in Google Sheets for efficient data analysis. However, many users struggle to utilize this powerful function effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we provide step-by-step instructions, practical examples, and expert tips to help you master VLOOKUP in Google Sheets. Learn how to leverage its syntax, parameters, and best practices to simplify your data lookups, save time, and unlock the full potential of your spreadsheets. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this guide will empower you to enhance your data analysis skills and make the most of VLOOKUP in Google Sheets.
Vlookup function formula- syntax and usage
When it comes to working with data in Google Sheets, the VLOOKUP function is an incredibly useful tool. It allows you to search for a specific value in a range of cells and retrieve corresponding information from another column. The syntax of the VLOOKUP function is as follows:
=VLOOKUP(search_key, range, index, is_sorted)
search_key: The exact value that you want to search for.
range: The range of cells where you want to perform the search.
index: The column number in the range from which you want to retrieve the data.
is_sorted: A logical value that specifies whether the range is sorted in ascending order.
How to use VLOOKUP in Google Sheets - formula examples
Let's take a look at an example to understand how the VLOOKUP function works. Consider a table with the following values:
Suppose we want to find the price of the 1 pound Chicken. We can use the VLOOKUP function as follows:
Step 1: Select the cell where you want the price.
Step 2: Initiate the formula with “=VLOOKUP(” and Google Sheets will start providing you a guideline for the formula.
Step 3: Complete the formula with the following parameters:
=VLOOKUP("Chicken", A2:C11, 2, FALSE)
In this example, "Chicken" is the search_key, A2:C11 is the range, 2 is the index (column B contains the prices), and FALSE indicates an exact match.
Step 4: Press Enter and the price of Chicken will appear in that cell.
How to use vlookup in google sheets from another sheet ?
To use VLOOKUP in Google Sheets from another sheet, you need to specify the sheet name along with the range in the formula. Let’s consider that same example, but this time, we will find the price for the Chicken in the Sheet 2.
Let's say the table is on "Sheet1" in your Google Sheets document, and you want to retrieve the price of "Chicken" from another sheet. Here's how you can use VLOOKUP:
Step 1: Select the cell where you want to apply the formula.
Step 2: Use the same formula, but this time, before selecting the range, you’ll specify the sheet that contains that table along with an exclamation mark. For this example, you can use the following formula:
=VLOOKUP(A2, Sheet1!A2:C11, 2, FALSE)
In this example, "A2" is the cell containing the value you want to search for ("Chicken"). "Sheet1!A2:C11" is the range that includes the table on "Sheet1." The number 2 represents the index of the column that contains the prices (column B), and FALSE indicates an exact match.
Step 3: Hit enter and the price of the chicken will appear in the cell.
How to use vlookup in google sheets from another workbook?
To use VLOOKUP in Google Sheets from another workbook, you can import the data using the IMPORTRANGE function and then apply the VLOOKUP function.
Let's assume the example table is in a workbook named "Grocery List" and you want to use VLOOKUP in another workbook named "New List."
Step 1: To use VLOOKUP in different worksheet, select the cell in that new Worksheet and use the following formula:
=VLOOKUP(search_key, IMPORTRANGE("URL_of_Workbook", "Sheet_Name!range"), column_index, is_sorted)
search_key: This is the value you want to search for in the specified range.
IMPORTRANGE("URL_of_Workbook", "Sheet_Name!range"): This function allows you to import data from another workbook. Replace "URL_of_Workbook" with the URL of the workbook you want to import from, and "Sheet_Name!range" with the specific sheet name and range that contains the data you want to retrieve.
column_index: This is the column number in the imported range from which you want to retrieve the data.
is_sorted: This is a logical value that determines whether the range is sorted in ascending order. Use TRUE for an approximate match or FALSE for an exact match.
In our example, the formula will look like:
=VLOOKUP(A2,IMPORTRANGE("https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Kd3zn6T4KrJlUBNWBZbTh_aNafw-7UdYRwu5LhnG_Gk", "Sheet1!A2:C11"), 2, FALSE)
Step 2: This URL corresponds to the URL of workbook 1.
Step 3: Press Enter and the value will appear in the new workbook.
WPS Spreadsheet free alternative for Google Sheets Vlookup
WPS Spreadsheet is a powerful and free alternative to Google Sheets that offers a range of features, including VLOOKUP functionality.
Here are some key points to highlight about WPS Spreadsheet:
Free and Comprehensive Office Suite: WPS is a free software that provides a complete office suite, allowing you to edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without any cost. With WPS Spreadsheet, you can handle your data analysis needs effectively.
PDF Functionality: WPS offers a built-in PDF function, enabling you to convert various documents into PDF format. This feature comes in handy when you need to share or distribute your data in a universally accessible format.
Extensive Template Library: WPS provides access to tens of thousands of templates through the WPS Template Mall. You can find not only templates similar to Google Sheets but also templates for Word, PowerPoint, and other document types. This vast collection allows you to leverage pre-designed templates for various purposes, enhancing your productivity.
Familiar User Interface: WPS Spreadsheet offers a user-friendly interface that is similar to Google Sheets, making it easy to transition from one platform to another. You'll find familiar features and functions, including VLOOKUP, ensuring a seamless experience for users already accustomed to Google Sheets.
FAQs about Vlookup Google Sheets
Q1: Why is VLOOKUP not working in Google Sheets?
There could be several reasons why VLOOKUP in Google Sheets is not working, such as incorrect syntax, the search key not being present in the range, or the range not being sorted when using approximate match. Double-check your formula and ensure that all the parameters are correct.
Q2: Can you use VLOOKUP between two workbooks?
Yes, you can use VLOOKUP between two workbooks by importing the data from one workbook to another using the IMPORTRANGE function. Once the data is imported, you can apply the VLOOKUP function as usual.
Q3: Is there an alternative to VLOOKUP?
Yes, there are alternative functions to VLOOKUP in Google Sheets, such as HLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, and QUERY. These functions provide different ways to perform similar tasks, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Mastering VLOOKUP in Google Sheets
In conclusion, the Google Sheets VLOOKUP function is a powerful tool for searching and retrieving data based on a specific value. By understanding its syntax and usage, you can effectively use Google Sheet VLOOKUP to manipulate and analyze your data. Additionally, if you're looking for a free alternative to Google Sheets with VLOOKUP functionality, WPS Spreadsheet can be a great option. It provides a range of features and templates to enhance your data management and analysis capabilities. Download WPS Office now for a free effective data analysis solution.
