Function Problems

How to Use Excel IF Formula to Check a Range of Days

Huma Ashraf Ch Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

Determine how to return different results based on whether the current day of the month falls within a sequential range or matches an explicitly listed array of days.

How to Use Excel IF Formula to Check a Range of Days

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Setting up a dynamic formula that evaluates the current date using DAY(TODAY()) and categorizes it into specific day ranges (e.g., 1-7, 8-14) or explicitly listed non-sequential days (e.g., 30, 31, 1-8).
Observed behavior: The user needs an efficient nested formula structure without excessively repeating conditions, replacing complex nested IF statements with cleaner alternatives like IFS, LET, or XMATCH.

Before you start

Ensure that your computer's system clock is accurate, as the TODAY() function relies on your operating system's date and time settings to return the correct day.

Solution 1Recommended

Use IFS and LET Functions for Sequential Day Ranges

This method is highly recommended when you need to categorize a month into continuous sequential blocks, such as weekly periods.

The LET function allows you to define a variable for the current day, preventing you from repeatedly typing DAY(TODAY()). Combined with the IFS function, it evaluates multiple conditions sequentially and returns the first true match.

Select the target cell

Click on the cell where you want the conditional result to appear.

Enter the LET and IFS formula

Type the formula: =LET(d, DAY(TODAY()), IFS(d<=7, "this", d<=14, "that", TRUE, "something else")).

Execute the formula

Press the Enter key. The formula will evaluate the current day of the month and return "this" for days 1 through 7, "that" for days 8 through 14, and "something else" for any day after the 14th.

Use IFS and LET Functions for Sequential Day Ranges

Efficiency Tip: By using the TRUE condition at the end of the IFS statement, you establish a default catch-all result for any remaining days in the month.

Solution 2

Use XMATCH for Explicitly Listed Non-Sequential Days

Use this solution when your target days wrap around the end and beginning of a month, or when they do not form a single continuous sequence.

Easily Build Advanced Date Formulas with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Office provides full support for advanced logical functions like LET, IFS, and XMATCH. You can effortlessly manage complex date ranges and conditions within your worksheets.

1. Open your workbook: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open the document where you need to check date ranges.
2. Select a cell: Click on the cell where you want to insert the formula.
3. Input the date formula: Type your formula, such as =LET(d, DAY(TODAY()), IFS(d<=10, "Early", TRUE, "Late")).
4. Confirm the input: Press Enter to instantly see the result based on today's date.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formulas and array constants.Built-in function wizard helps you write nested IF formulas without syntax errors.Lightweight, fast-loading, and completely free to use.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the OR function instead of XMATCH for explicitly listed days?

Yes, you can use the OR function, though it makes the formula much longer. For example, you can write =IF(OR(DAY(TODAY())=30, DAY(TODAY())=31, DAY(TODAY())=1), "this", "that"). However, the XMATCH method with an array is preferred for keeping your formula clean and readable.

Why is my formula using TODAY() not updating to the new day?

The TODAY() function is volatile and updates automatically when the worksheet recalculates. If it hasn't updated, check if automatic recalculation is turned off in your formula settings, or press F9 on your keyboard to force a manual recalculation.

Are LET, IFS, and XMATCH functions supported in all spreadsheet versions?

No, LET, IFS, and XMATCH are newer functions introduced in modern updates like Office 365, Excel 2021, and recent versions of WPS Office. If you are using an older spreadsheet version, you will need to rely on traditional nested IF and MATCH functions.

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