How to Use Index Match in Excel

Are you tired of constantly using VLOOKUP function in Microsoft Excel and not getting the results you need? Well, it’s time for you to discover one of Excel’s most powerful and versatile functions: INDEX MATCH. With this function, you can easily search, match, and retrieve data from tables or lists in a more efficient way than VLOOKUP. This blog post will show you step-by-step how to use INDEX MATCH in Excel and provide examples of how to apply it in your daily work.

Before diving into INDEX MATCH, let’s understand its concept and advantages over VLOOKUP

Same as VLOOKUP, INDEX MATCH is a lookup function in Excel, but it has some significant advantages.

Flexibility: In the INDEX MATCH function, it is not necessary for the lookup value to be in the first column of the lookup table. However, in VLOOKUP, the lookup value needs to be in the first column.

Multiple Retrievals: With the use of INDEX MATCH, you can retrieve multiple values from a range that matches your lookup criteria without repetition of results.

Error Handling: Unlike VLOOKUP, INDEX MATCH function doesn’t produce N/A error if the search criterion is not found. Instead, it shows the value from the alternative column.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use INDEX MATCH in Excel

Step 1: Identify Your Lookup Criteria

Begin by identifying the value you want to look up in the table. It could be a specific number, text, date, or reference cell.

Step 2: Create your INDEX Formula

This formula will determine the starting point of the match by specifying the location of your result in the table. Here is an example of the formula for the INDEX function:

=INDEX (Result Column, MATCH (Lookup Value, Lookup Column, 0))

Step 3: Add the MATCH Formula to Locate the Exact Value

The MATCH function helps identify the location of your lookup value. Here is an example of the formula for the MATCH function:

=MATCH (Lookup Value, Lookup Column, 0)

Step 4: Combine the INDEX and MATCH Functions

Using these two functions together, you can search and retrieve data from your table. Here is an example of the formula with the INDEX and MATCH functions:

=INDEX (Result Column, MATCH (Lookup Value, Lookup Column, 0))

By entering the formula in this way, it will return the corresponding value that matches the lookup condition.

Conclusion

Index Match is a powerful alternative to VLOOKUP to lookup and retrieve data from tables or lists in Excel. With this guide, you should have a good understanding of what Index Match is and how to use it.

Next time you need to search and retrieve data in Excel, give INDEX MATCH a try. It’s a flexible, error-handling function that can save you time and improve your productivity.

Tips for Using Index Match in Excel

Here are some tips to help you master the use of INDEX MATCH in Excel:

Use Absolute References

When you drag the formula to other cells, the references in your formula will change. To fix this, use absolute references (e.g., $A$1) to lock in your lookup values.

Sort Your Data

Making sure your data is sorted in either ascending or descending order makes the lookup process faster. You can also use the INDEX MATCH function to lookup data in an unsorted table.

Use Named Ranges

You can use named ranges for both the lookup and result columns to simplify your formula and make it easier to read. It also assists in avoiding typos and mistakes in lengthy formulas.

Combine with IFNA Function

If the search criterion is not found in the lookup column, the result is “#N/A.” With the IFNA function, you can customize your formula to return a specific value instead of “N/A.”

When to Use VLOOKUP Over INDEX MATCH

While INDEX and MATCH functions are more powerful, there are still scenarios where using VLOOKUP is more practical. VLOOKUP is generally faster when using large tables. Furthermore, VLOOKUP is still the better option when you want to return data from multiple columns simultaneously or retain duplicates.

Final Thoughts

A combination of VLOOKUP and INDEX MATCH can take your Excel skills to the next level. Both functions have their advantages, and it’s essential to use them when it is the most appropriate. This guide has provided the basics of the INDEX MATCH function and how to use it. It’s now time to implement it and explore its capabilities to improve your productivity.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about INDEX MATCH in Excel:

Can I use INDEX MATCH to find the second or third match?

Yes, you can. To retrieve the second or third match, change the MATCH function to look for the next occurrence. Hence, the formula would need to include an additional MATCH function to search for the next result.

Can I use the INDEX MATCH function to search through multiple sheets?

Yes, you can. You can specify the sheet name along with the cell range in your formula. Ensure that both sheets have identical structures and formatting.

What is the advantage of using the INDEX MATCH function over VLOOKUP?

There are three main benefits to using the INDEX MATCH function over VLOOKUP: (1) Flexibility, (2) Multiple Retrievals, and (3) Error Handling. The INDEX MATCH function doesn’t require the lookup value to be in the first column, and it can retrieve multiple matches without displaying duplicates. Furthermore, INDEX MATCH can alert you with errors if search criteria is not found.

Can I use the INDEX MATCH function to search for data in the same row as my lookup value?

Yes, you can. The MATCH function will typically help you locate the column containing the data. Following, you can use the INDEX function to retrieve data from other columns on the same row.

What happens if I delete a column or row in my table?

If you delete a column or row in your table, the INDEX MATCH function will adjust accordingly, making your formula flexible and reliable.\