Function Problems

How to Return Yes or No Instead of TRUE or FALSE in Excel

Rana Garcia Sep 29, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to configure a formula that outputs custom text values like Yes or No instead of standard Boolean TRUE/FALSE results when evaluating whether specific cells are populated.

How to Return Yes or No Instead of TRUE or FALSE in Excel

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Evaluating data where the result should output custom text based on whether target cells contain values or remain blank.
Observed behavior: Logical tests typically return TRUE or FALSE by default. The user wants to override this behavior using nested IF functions to display Yes, No, or a blank cell based on specific populated cell conditions.

Before you start

Ensure you have identified the target cells you want to evaluate and selected the destination cells where the 'Yes' or 'No' results will be displayed.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Nested IF Functions to Return Yes or No

Apply a nested IF formula to evaluate multiple cell conditions simultaneously and output your customized text.

By nesting an IF function inside another, you can check multiple conditions in a specific order. This allows you to output distinct text strings like 'Yes' or 'No', or leave the cell blank if the primary condition isn't met.

Select the destination cell

Click on the cell where you want the 'Yes' or 'No' result to appear (for example, cell B2).

Enter the nested IF formula

Type the formula =IF(A2<>"",IF(C2="","No","Yes"),"") into the formula bar at the top of the spreadsheet.

Apply the formula

Press the Enter key. The formula will return 'No' if A2 has a value but C2 is blank, 'Yes' if both A2 and C2 contain values, and a blank result if A2 is empty.

Fill the formula down

Click and hold the small square fill handle at the bottom-right corner of cell B2, then drag it down the column to apply the formula to other rows.

Use Nested IF Functions to Return Yes or No

Customizing the Output Text: You can replace 'Yes' and 'No' in the formula with any other text values you prefer (e.g., 'Pass' or 'Fail'). Just ensure your custom text is enclosed within double quotation marks.

Solution 2

Use a Simple IF Function for a Single Condition

If you only need to check one single condition rather than multiple cells, a basic IF function is sufficient.

WPS Spreadsheet Solution

Easily Manage Logical Functions with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet fully supports Excel's IF functions and logical operators, allowing you to seamlessly evaluate data and return custom text values like Yes or No. It provides a highly compatible and intuitive interface for all your data analysis needs.

1. Open your file in WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office, open the Spreadsheet module, and load your existing workbook.
2. Input the IF formula: Select your target cell and type your nested =IF() formula exactly as you would in Microsoft Excel.
3. Apply and drag to fill: Press Enter to generate your Yes/No result, then use the bottom-right fill handle to drag and apply the formula across your desired range.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formulas and file formats.Intuitive formula builder to help you write and audit nested IF statements.Free and lightweight software for complex data management tasks.Cross-platform support for seamless workflows on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return other text besides Yes and No?

Yes. You can customize the formula to output any text. Simply replace the words inside the double quotation marks in the formula (e.g., =IF(A2>0, "Approve", "Reject")).

Why is my IF formula returning an error instead of Yes or No?

This usually happens due to a syntax error. Double-check that all your text values are enclosed in double quotation marks, that there are no missing commas separating the arguments, and that your parentheses are properly balanced.

How do I evaluate multiple conditions at once without nesting?

You can combine the IF function with the AND or OR functions. For example, =IF(AND(A2<>"", C2<>""), "Yes", "No") will output 'Yes' only if both A2 and C2 are not empty.

Excel & Data Problems