Adding Headings for the VLOOKUP Array Formula
Before starting the VLOOKUP array formula it is usually a good idea to add headings to the worksheet to show what data is being retrieved with the array formula. For this tutorial enter the following headings into the cells indicated. The VLOOKUP array formula will be entered into the row below these headings.
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D1 - Part
E1 - Price
F1 - Part #
G1 - Supplier
Opening the VLOOKUP Dialog Box
Although it is possible to just type the VLOOKUP function into a cell in a worksheet, many people find it easier to use the function's dialog box.
Tutorial Steps
- Click on cell E2 to make it the active cell. This is where we will start the VLOOKUP array formula.
- Click on the Formulas tab.
- Choose Lookup & Reference from the ribbon to open the function drop down list.
- Click on VLOOKUP in the list to bring up the function's dialog box.
The data that we enter into the four blank rows in the dialog box will form the arguments of the VLOOKUP function. These arguments tell the function what information we are after and where it should search to find it.
