VLOOKUP Range Lookup: What is Range_Lookup?
Understand the range_lookup parameter in VLOOKUP and when to use TRUE vs FALSE.
Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about vlookup range lookup: what is range_lookup?
Overview
The range_lookup parameter is VLOOKUP's fourth argument that determines whether you want an exact match (FALSE) or approximate match (TRUE). This parameter dramatically affects how VLOOKUP behaves and what results you get.
FALSE: Exact Match
When range_lookup is FALSE (or 0), VLOOKUP searches for an exact match only. If no exact match is found, it returns #N/A. This is the most commonly used option for typical lookup scenarios.
TRUE: Approximate Match
When range_lookup is TRUE (or 1, or omitted), VLOOKUP finds the largest value that is less than or equal to the lookup value. The data must be sorted in ascending order for this to work correctly.
When to Use Each Option
Use FALSE for most business scenarios: product lookups, employee data, customer information. Use TRUE for range-based lookups: tax brackets, commission rates, grade scales, or any scenario where you need to find which range a value falls into.
Common Mistakes with Range Lookup
The biggest mistake is using TRUE with unsorted data, which gives incorrect results. Another common error is omitting the parameter (defaults to TRUE) when you need exact matches.
✨Best Practices
- Always explicitly specify FALSE for exact matches - don't rely on defaults
- Only use TRUE when your data is sorted in ascending order
- Use TRUE for range lookups like tax brackets or grade scales
- Test your formula with known values to verify correct behavior
- Document which type of match you're using for future reference
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about vlookup range lookup: what is range_lookup?
Key Takeaways
- Understand the core concepts and syntax of vlookup range lookup: what is range_lookup?
- Apply best practices to avoid common errors and improve formula reliability
- Use real-world examples to practice and reinforce your learning
- Master the fundamental building blocks of VLOOKUP
- Recognize when and where to use VLOOKUP effectively
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