How do I create a VLOOKUP formula in Excel?

As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, specializing in Microsoft Excel Training & Coaching, let's walk through the steps of creating a VLOOKUP formula to enhance your Excel skills.

Step-by-Step Guide: Creating a VLOOKUP Formula

1. Select the Cell for the Result:

• Choose the cell where you want the result of the VLOOKUP formula to appear.

2. Start the Formula:

• Begin by typing the equal sign (=) to initiate the formula.

3. Type "VLOOKUP":

• Enter the VLOOKUP function followed by an open parenthesis.

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• =VLOOKUP(

4. Enter the Lookup Value:

• Specify the value you want to search for in the first column of the table. This is the value you want to match.

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• =VLOOKUP(lookup_value,

5. Define the Table Array:

• Identify the range that contains the data you want to search through. This is the table where Excel will look for the specified value.

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• =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array,

6. Set the Column Index Number:

• Indicate the column number from which to retrieve the value. This is the column where Excel should find the associated information.

  excel

• =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num,

7. Choose Range Lookup Option:

• Decide whether you want an exact match (FALSE) or an approximate match (TRUE). If unsure, you can use FALSE for an exact match.

  excel

• =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])

8. Close the Parenthesis and Press Enter:

• Complete the formula by closing the parenthesis and pressing Enter.

  excel

• =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])

Example:

Let's say you have a table of employee data in cells A1 to C5, and you want to look up the department of an employee with ID "101". The formula would look like this: