Why does my VLOOKUP return #N/A error?

The #N/A error means VLOOKUP couldn't find your lookup value. Common causes include: exact spelling mismatches, extra spaces in data, different data types (text vs numbers), the lookup value not existing in the first column, or hidden formatting characters.

How do I fix VLOOKUP returning wrong values?

Wrong values usually indicate an incorrect column index number. Count columns from the leftmost column of your table array. Also ensure you're using FALSE for exact match, verify your table array range is correct, and check for duplicate lookup values.

Why does my VLOOKUP work in one cell but not when copied?

This is typically caused by relative references. When you copy a formula, relative references adjust automatically. Use absolute references ($A$1:$D$100) for your table array to keep it fixed when copying the formula to other cells.

How can I make VLOOKUP ignore case sensitivity?

VLOOKUP is not case-sensitive by default, but if you're having issues, use UPPER() or LOWER() functions: =VLOOKUP(UPPER(A2),UPPER(table_range),2,FALSE). This converts both the lookup value and table data to the same case.

VLOOKUP Not Working? Common Issues & Solutions

Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about why is my vlookup not working?

Overview

VLOOKUP not working as expected? You're not alone. Even experienced Excel users encounter VLOOKUP issues. The good news is that most VLOOKUP problems fall into predictable categories with straightforward solutions. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide will help you identify and fix the most common VLOOKUP issues quickly.

Quick Diagnostic Checklist

Before diving deep into troubleshooting, run through this quick checklist: 1) Is your lookup value spelled exactly the same as in your table? 2) Are you using FALSE for exact match? 3) Is your column index number correct? 4) Does your table array include the lookup column as the leftmost column? 5) Are you using absolute references for your table array? If you answered 'no' to any of these, start there.

The VLOOKUP Debug Formula

Create a debug version of your VLOOKUP to isolate issues. Use this formula: =IF(ISERROR(VLOOKUP(A2,table,2,FALSE)),"Error: "&VLOOKUP(A2,table,2,FALSE),VLOOKUP(A2,table,2,FALSE)). This will show you exactly what error VLOOKUP is generating, making diagnosis much easier.

Data Cleaning for VLOOKUP Success

Many VLOOKUP issues stem from dirty data. Before troubleshooting the formula, clean your data: Remove leading/trailing spaces with TRIM(), standardize text case with UPPER() or LOWER(), remove non-printable characters with CLEAN(), and ensure consistent number formatting. Clean data prevents 90% of VLOOKUP issues.

✨Best Practices

Always use FALSE for range_lookup unless you specifically need approximate matching
Use absolute references ($A$1:$D$100) for table arrays to prevent shifting when copying
Test VLOOKUP with a known value first to verify your formula structure
Keep lookup columns clean and consistently formatted
Document your VLOOKUP logic with comments for future troubleshooting
Consider using IFERROR() to handle errors gracefully: =IFERROR(VLOOKUP(...),"Not Found")

Troubleshooting

Problem: #N/A Error - Value Not Found

Solution: Check for exact spelling matches, remove extra spaces using TRIM(), ensure consistent data types (text vs numbers), verify the lookup value exists in the first column, and check for hidden characters or formatting differences.

Problem: #REF! Error - Invalid Reference

Solution: Your column index number is larger than the number of columns in your table array. Count your columns carefully and ensure the col_index_num doesn't exceed the table width. Also check that no columns were deleted from your table.

Problem: #VALUE! Error - Wrong Data Type

Solution: This occurs when you mix data types incorrectly. Ensure your lookup value and the values in your lookup column are the same type (both text or both numbers). Convert text numbers to actual numbers using VALUE() function if needed.

Problem: Returns Wrong Value

Solution: Verify your column index number is correct (count from the leftmost column of your table array). Ensure you're using FALSE for exact match. Check for duplicate values in your lookup column. Verify your table array range includes all necessary data.

Problem: Formula Works Sometimes But Not Others

Solution: You're likely using relative references that change when you copy the formula. Use absolute references ($A$1:$D$100) for your table array. Also check for inconsistent data formatting across your dataset.

Problem: Can't Find Values That Clearly Exist

Solution: Look for leading/trailing spaces, different text cases, or invisible characters. Use TRIM() to remove spaces, UPPER() or LOWER() for case issues, and CLEAN() to remove non-printable characters.

📖 1 min read📊 Advanced level🎯 4 key concepts

Why is My VLOOKUP Not Working?