Table of Contents

Left Lookup

The VLOOKUP function only looks to the right. To look up a value in any column and return the corresponding value to the left simply use INDEX and MATCH.

1. The MATCH function returns the position of a value in a given range.

MATCH function in Excel

Explanation: 104 found at position 4 in the range $G$4:$G$7.

2. Use this result and the INDEX function to return the 4th value in the range $E$4:$E$7.

INDEX function in Excel

3. Drag the formula in cell B2 down to cell B11.

Drag the Formula Down

Note: when we drag this formula down the absolute references ($E$4:$E$7 and $G$4:$G$7) stay the same while the relative reference (A2) changes to A3 A4 A5 etc.

4. If you have Excel 365 or Excel 2021 simply use the XLOOKUP function to perform a left lookup.

XLOOKUP function in Excel

Note: the XLOOKUP function entered into cell B2 fills multiple cells. Wow! This behavior in Excel 365/2021 is called spilling. Visit our page about the XLOOKUP function to learn more about this great new Excel function.

Leave A Comment

Excel meets AI – Boost your productivity like never before!

At Formulas HQ, we’ve harnessed the brilliance of AI to turbocharge your Spreadsheet mastery. Say goodbye to the days of grappling with complex formulas, VBA code, and scripts. We’re here to make your work smarter, not harder.

Related Articles

The Latest on Formulas HQ Blog