How to use VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

This guide provides a step-by-step process to effectively use the VLOOKUP function in Google Sheets. The VLOOKUP function is used to search for specific information within a table. In this example, we will demonstrate how to find a person's salary using the VLOOKUP function.

Step 1

To begin using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets, navigate to the menu bar and click on Insert.

Step 2

From the Insert drop-down menu, select Function.

Step 3

In the sub-menu, choose Lookup.

Step 4

From the Lookup options, select the VLOOKUP function.

Step 5

To utilize VLOOKUP, start by entering the search key, which is the name of the person whose salary you wish to find. After entering the search key, add a comma to proceed to the next step.

Step 6

Select the range using your mouse, or you can manually input the row and column numbers to define the range. After defining the range, insert another comma to move forward.

Step 7

Enter the index number, representing the column containing the data you wish to retrieve. Since the annual salary is located in the ninth column, enter '9' as the index.

Step 8

Specify whether the table is sorted. If sorted, enter true; if not, enter false. In this instance, the table is not sorted, so type false to complete the VLOOKUP function.

Step 9

Press Enter. The value from the table will be retrieved and displayed in the cell.

Pro tips for using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

1. Understand the syntax: The VLOOKUP formula follows this structure: =VLOOKUP(search_key, range, index, [is_sorted]). Ensure the search_key is in the first column of the range you are looking up in.

2. Use exact match: For more accurate results, always set is_sorted to FALSE when you want an exact match, like =VLOOKUP(A2, B1:D5, 3, FALSE).

3. Use VLOOKUP with absolute references: If you are copying the formula down or across multiple cells, use absolute references ($) for the range to avoid shifting the reference, like =VLOOKUP(A2, $B$1:$D$5, 3, FALSE).

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them for using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

1. Not having the search key in the first column: VLOOKUP can only search for values in the first column of the range. Fix: Ensure your search key is in the first column of the lookup range.

2. Incorrect range selection: If your lookup range isn’t selected properly, you may receive errors. Fix: Always double-check the range and make sure it includes all the columns necessary for the lookup.

3. Using an unsorted range when not required: If the is_sorted argument is set to TRUE (or left blank), it may lead to incorrect results when searching for exact matches. Fix: Always set is_sorted to FALSE for exact matches.

Common FAQs for using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

1. Can VLOOKUP look to the left of the search column? No, VLOOKUP can only search for values to the right of the first column in your specified range. To search left, consider using INDEX and MATCH instead.

2. What should I do if VLOOKUP returns an error? If VLOOKUP returns #N/A, it means the search key was not found. Ensure your search key is correct, and the range includes all possible matches.

3. Can I use VLOOKUP for an approximate match? Yes, when is_sorted is set to TRUE or omitted, VLOOKUP will look for the closest match. However, this is more useful for numerical ranges.

Thank you for using this guide for using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets!