Xlookup search mode. return_array: The range/column from which .

Xlookup search mode Running Total References For the lookup and return arrays we are using a running total reference. The XLOOKUP function on Excel looks for a value in a range, and returns the matching result. It's better than VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and some uses of INDEX-MATCH. xlsx file Search values distributed horizontally and return corresponding values Filter values distributed horizontally - Excel 365 Function Feb 2, 2024 · See how to use the XLOOKUP function for vertical and horizontal lookup in Excel. These are explained below. This replicates the behavior of VLOOKUP where it tries to find a match by starting at the top and working down. Here is the function syntax followed by a detailed breakdown of each parameter, including examples: =XLOOKUP (lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) The formula consists of several components that work together to perform the desired lookup. The last two in [square brackets] are 2 days ago · Learn how to use regex match in Excel XLOOKUP and XMATCH to search patterns, validate formats, and work with structured data, complete with formula examples and practical tips. It works both vertically and horizontally, and can perform several optional arguments such as matching the first or last match, matching an exact match, or the next largest or smallest match. Includes practical examples, including two-way lookups, default values (IFNA replacement), wildcards, Nth/last find, multiple criteria, multiple column returns (spill), and sort/search modes. As the formula is copied down column E, it returns the amount for invoice numbers that exist, and an empty string ("") if the invoice number is not found. Jan 17, 2025 · XLOOKUP has advanced arguments like match_mode and search_mode to more flexibly handle a bigger and messier datasets and practical applications Similarly, XLOOKUP is better than HLOOKUP for the same reasons above. Match-Mode can be one of 3 values: 0: Exact match, which is the default The Excel XLOOKUP function searches for a value, offering flexible matching options and improvements over VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. What is XLOOKUP in Excel? The XLOOKUP function in Excel is being hailed as the replacement for both VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP, hence the “X” standing in for either character. Aug 29, 2024 · 1. When only these 3 arguments are supplied, the XLOOKUP tries to find the exact value, starting from the top of the list. Sep 10, 2025 · Understanding XLOOKUP Basics Before focusing on multiple matches, it’s important to understand what XLOOKUP does by default. The TRANSPOSE function is optional and used here only to convert the result from XLOOKUP to a vertical array. It allows you to find and return values in a specified range or array based on one or more conditions. With added benefits like default exact matching and the ability to handle errors more gracefully Jul 11, 2024 · XLOOKUP function is a powerful lookup function in Microsoft Excel that allows you to search and retrieve data from a range of cells. This article will explain how to use wildcards with XLOOKUP, providing step-by-step instructions, examples, and best practices. The XLOOKUP formula searches from bottom to top (search_mode -1) to find the most recent occurrence of 1. XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode],[search_mode]) This affects how the function searches for and identifies the value being sought. lookup_array: The range/column where Excel will search. Oct 2, 2023 · The XLOOKUP function searches a range or an array for a match and returns the corresponding item from a second range or array. Oct 9, 2025 · The search_mode parameter in the XLOOKUP function in Microsoft Excel specifies the direction or method Excel should use when searching for the lookup_value. The default value: Search for first-to-last: 1 Search for last-to-first: -1 Binary search (sorted in ascending order): 2. Select the lookup array. This means if you want the last entry for a certain ID or name, XLOOKUP can get it without any array tricks or helper columns. It simplifies data analysis and replaces VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. Mar 20, 2025 · What is XLOOKUP? XLOOKUP helps you find a value in a range or array. The syntax of the XLOOKUP function is as follows: = XLOOKUP ( lookup_value ; lookup_array ; return_array ; if_not_found ; match_mode ; search_mode ) Jun 18, 2025 · Learn how to use XLOOKUP function in Excel using this step-by-step tutorial with 10 practical examples and a free sample workbook. Jan 10, 2024 · The tutorial shows how to use multiple criteria XLOOKUP in Excel, combining AND as well as OR logic, exact and approximate matches, conditions in the same or different columns. Jan 31, 2025 · Now you can take advantage of regex within the existing XLOOKUP and XMATCH functions, by using the new [match_mode] = 3 and a regex pattern as the lookup_value. In the example shown, XLOOKUP is configured to match the value entered in cell E5, which may appear anywhere in the lookup values in B5:B15. 3. Sep 4, 2019 · It's the same basic principle as VLOOKUP but includes some cool new features. Excel XLOOKUP Syntax: =XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) Each argument of the XLOOKUP function plays a crucial role in defining what you are searching for and where Excel Nov 8, 2024 · Learn how to use XLOOKUP to match text values with the help of the 5th argument, wildcard character match mode. Jun 8, 2025 · Excel’s XLOOKUP function represents a revolutionary advancement in spreadsheet lookup capabilities, offering a modern alternative to traditional VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions. 99. 🤔 ABOUT THIS Lesson 👇HOW TO USE XLOOKUP SEARCH MODE BY EXCEL IN A MINUTEWelcome to Excel in a Minute! IntroductionWhat are the different search modes you c Implement accurate lookups with Excel XLOOKUP and XMATCH. It can look in any direction, return last match, perform v-lookup or h-lookup with multiple criteria, two-way lookup, and more. Jan 4, 2025 · To use a regex pattern in an XLOOKUP formula, you can enable "regex match" as the match mode and then provide a regex pattern in the lookup value. Below is a breakdown of the different Jul 6, 2025 · Here’s the general syntax of the XLOOKUP function: =XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) We’ll focus on the match mode argument, which determines how Excel searches for the lookup value. In the example shown, the formula in H7 is: =TRANSPOSE((XLOOKUP(H4,D5:D15,B5:E15,"Not found",2))) which performs a wildcard match with the value in H4 and returns all 4 fields as the result. Learn how to use the XLOOKUP function in Excel 365/2021, a replacement for VLOOKUP with more features. It is a more advanced and flexible alternative to the older VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions, and it can handle both vertical and horizontal lookups. In our case, we want to search last-to-first, represented by -1. You can control the match mode, like other lookup functions, and even control the search mode. XLOOKUP is a powerful Excel function for searching values across multiple columns and ranges. To use XLOOKUP, set Oct 28, 2024 · The XLOOKUP function in Excel is one of the most powerful tools for searching and retrieving data. Like its predecessors, XLOOKUP looks for a value in a table and returns a matching result. Jan 17, 2021 · SEARCH MODE: The search mode determines the direction, the XLOOKUP searches for the values. (discussed in detail later – Example 6) XLOOKUP Excel Function Examples Finally, we have reached to a point when we can start understanding how XLOOKUP formula works in excel. It is denoted as a numeral from -2 to 2 with 0 excluded: 1 Syntax of the XLOOKUP Function As noted above, XLOOKUP has three required arguments (function inputs) and three optional arguments. Excel XLOOKUP search mode The [search_mode] is the sixth parameter in the XLOOKUP formula. Jan 29, 2025 · Video How to return multiple values How to search horizontally How to perform a reverse search - starting with the last item How to perform a binary xlookup How to perform a wildcard xlookup Get Excel *. Jan 23, 2025 · Key insights XLOOKUP is a modern Excel function designed to replace older functions like VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP, offering enhanced features and flexibility. The table contains dated price entries. See examples, syntax, and tips for using XLOOKUP instead of VLOOKUP or HLOOKUP. XLOOKUP offers various options to retrieve data based on different conditions, making it a more Dec 16, 2019 · XLOOKUP has a sixth argument named search mode. 2. Unlike these traditional functions, XLOOKUP can search both vertically and horizontally, making it ideal for retrieving specific values from any range in a table. It was introduced in Microsoft Office 365 as a replacement for the traditional VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions, offering improved functionality and flexibility. Syntax of XLOOKUP: =XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) Default behavior: XLOOKUP finds the first matching value in the lookup array and returns the corresponding item from the return array. Unlike VLOOKUP, which has limitations such as requiring a column index and being restricted to left-to-right searches, XLOOKUP can search in both directions (vertical or Apr 6, 2025 · Key Takeaways XLOOKUP is a powerful Excel function exclusively available for Microsoft 365 users. Excel's XLOOKUP worksheet function searches a range or an array, and returns an item corresponding to the first match it finds. Syntax Apr 10, 2024 · Category: The XLOOKUP function falls under Excel Logical Functions, serving as a testament to its utility in performing logical operations with ease and precision. Home > Functions > XLOOKUP XLOOKUP The XLOOKUP function is a powerful tool for searching and retrieving data in Excel. Limitation: It does . Important: this only works if you data is sorted in ascending order. But whereas the other lookup functions require complex pairing with other functions like INDEX/MATCH to search in different areas Aug 6, 2025 · The XLOOKUP function in Excel represents an efficient way to search and extract data. More on that below, but first let’s see a simple example. This results in a different answer than before. For example, with mode 2 and search M* (or m*), the function will search for the first city whose name begins with M: =XLOOKUP(E2,B2:B11,A2:A11,"-",2) And finally, the last optional argument is Search_mode: 1: search starting from the beginning (by default) -1: search starting from the end 2: binary search ascending -2: binary search descending Aug 25, 2022 · XLOOKUP matches a search key in a lookup range and returns the value from a result range at that same position. Jul 13, 2024 · XLOOKUP is a powerful Excel function that allows you to search for specific data in a range or table. Learn how to use the XLOOKUP function to find things in a table or range by row, with different match and search modes. =XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_range, return_range, [not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) lookup_value (required): This is the value that you give XLOOKUP which it will use to find the position of the corresponding value you want it Aug 13, 2024 · To enable XLOOKUP'S binary search mode, we use 2 for search_mode. Aug 3, 2024 · The XLOOKUP function in Excel is a powerful and versatile lookup function that allows you to search for a value in a range or array and return a corresponding value in another range or array. This parameter can greatly affect how the function operates, especially in large datasets or specific search scenarios. When dealing with thousands of records at the time, it could make a difference. In our example, we are searching in the Name column of the Jan 24, 2025 · Since we set the search_mode to -1, XLOOKUP starts searching from the last row (row 12) upwards instead of the default top-to-bottom search. Here’s a simple XLOOKUP formula that looks for the search Aug 29, 2019 · [search_mode] is an optional argument, and defaults to 1 when omitted. Enter an equal sign and write the XLOOKUP formula. If XLOOKUP does not find a match, you can specify a default value. This is a mixed absolute/relative reference that refers to all the cells at and above the row the formula is in. Nov 5, 2025 · Description Use this function to search a range or an array, and return an item corresponding to the first match it finds. This example shows finding the latest price for a product. XLOOKUP's Signature Here is the signature (arguments) for XLOOKUP: =XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [match_mode], [search_mode]) It looks a bit scary at first, but only the first three arguments are required. Read more here. See examples of exact match, approximate match, left lookup, multiple values and last match modes. Sep 16, 2025 · XLOOKUP Syntax The XLOOKUP function has the following 5 arguments in its syntax: XLOOKUP (lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) The first three arguments are required: lookup_value - Value to search for lookup_array - Where to look for the lookup value - range (row or column), or array return_array - Where get return value - range (row or column Apr 23, 2024 · Using the regular search mode of XLOOKUP, it could take up to seven comparisons to get the desired result. Apr 10, 2023 · XLOOKUP Search_Mode 1 – Search top to bottom (or left to right for horizontal lookup) -1 – Search bottom to top (or right to left for horizontal lookup) 2 (-2) – Binary search on sorted data. If you don’t know what a binary search is, you probably won’t ever need to perform one. Aug 23, 2025 · XLOOKUP introduces the search_mode parameter which allows reverse search (last-to-first) with a simple -1 setting. Using wildcards with XLOOKUP enhances its flexibility, enabling you to perform partial matches and more complex searches. I was under the impression that the "1" in the search mode and "1" in the match mode would search for the next biggest item in the list which would be the 9. XLOOKUP offers two primary methods for handling multiple criteria searches: Boolean logic and Concatenation. return_array: The range/column from which Oct 23, 2023 · The XLOOKUP function contains built-in support for wildcards, but this feature must be enabled explicitly by setting match mode to the number 2. Syntax =XLOOKUP (lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) May 11, 2024 · To perform a partial match with XLOOKUP, supply 2 for the match mode argument to allow wildcards. Syntax: XLOOKUP (lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) Parameters: lookup_value: The value you want to search for. Use the XLOOKUP function to find things in a table or range by row. If not sorted, invalid results will be returned. Aug 14, 2025 · The XLOOKUP function in Excel is a powerful and flexible tool designed to replace older lookup functions like VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. The formula in F5 is: = XLOOKUP ("*" & E5 & "*", code, quantity,"no match",2) // returns 50 lookup_value - E5 Oct 9, 2025 · The XLOOKUP function in Excel includes an argument for “match mode,” which is crucial for determining how the function matches the lookup value with values in the lookup array. This enables us to switch the lookup to start at the bottom and look up a list to find the last occurrence of a value instead. Apr 4, 2025 · XLOOKUP with Reverse Search XLOOKUP can search from last to first, useful for finding the most recent entry. Jan 14, 2020 · Search Mode: Allows you to search in regular or reverse order. May 7, 2024 · 2 – wildcard match mode The formula returned “ Randolf ” who drives a Mitsubishi and is the first match from the top. Now, what if you want to look up the first match from the bottom? In this case, choose a respective search mode. With XLOOKUP, you can look in one column for a search term and return a result from the same row in another column, regardless of which side the return column is on. Mar 10, 2022 · Hi, I am using the formula =XLOOKUP (B2,B3:B7,B3:B7,,1,1). Let’s understand Nov 9, 2019 · Can't access the exercise? Below you can find the link to download the Excel file: XLOOKUP-1. The syntax for XLOOKUP is: XLOOKUP (lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]), where optional parameters allow for handling missing values and specifying match or search modes. XLOOKUP Function Syntax With all this new functionality comes some more arguments, so let’s look at the syntax: =XLOOKUP( lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) Don’t be put off by the number of arguments in this function because most of the time you’ll only use the first three and it is still way easier than VLOOKUP. Introduced in 2019, XLOOKUP is an upgrade to the VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions, providing more flexibility and functionality. For example, look up the price of an automotive part by the part number, or find an employee name based on their employee ID. Jan 7, 2021 · Examples of XLOOKUP Function Basic lookup XLOOKUP needs at least 3 arguments to work: the value you are looking for, an array or a range that may include your search value, and an array or a range for return values. Make a reference to the lookup value. Table of Contents What is XLOOKUP? How can I get XLOOKUP? How to use XLOOKUP Function (Syntax and Arguments) Basic usage, exact match (required arguments only) XLOOKUP “if not found” argument (4th argument) Match mode or type (5th argument) Search mode (6th argument) XLOOKUP Function Examples Lookup right to the left using XLOOKUP Combine XLOOKUP with the MIN or MAX functions Replace INDEX Mar 18, 2021 · [search_mode] – In this argument, you enter 1, -1, 2, or -2 to specify how should function search the value in lookup_array. This powerful function simplifies data retrieval tasks while providing enhanced flexibility and functionality that addresses many limitations of its predecessors. Syntax XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode]) Inputs This function accepts the following arguments: XLOOKUP becomes more powerful in Excel with the new match mode 3, which enables using regex patterns as the search key. Apr 12, 2024 · This tutorial discusses the purpose and syntax of the XLOOKUP Excel function, its advantages concerning its predecessors, the two main ways of using XLOOKUP with multiple criteria including their pros and cons, extending functionality through the optional parameters, and the way of running a similar search in older Excel versions. The XLOOKUP function syntax includes parameters like lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, if_not_found, match_mode, and search_mode. Instead this formula is giving me the next largest item in the whole list which is 8. xlsx (1696 downloads ) Exercise #2 – Return last matching value Use search_mode argument in order to return the last matching value from your data! Jul 7, 2025 · Learn how to use Excel’s XLOOKUP function to simplify data retrieval, save time, and master spreadsheets with this quick beginner’s guide.