INDEX Function
INDEX retrieves a value from a specific row and column in a range.
Syntax
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| array | The range or array from which to retrieve the value. | Required |
| row_num | The row number from which to retrieve the value. | Required |
| column_num | Optional. The column number from which to retrieve the value. | Optional |
Basic Example
Get value from specific position
=INDEX(A1:C5, 3, 2)Returns the value from the 3rd row and 2nd column of the range.
Advanced Examples
Example 1: INDEX with MATCH for flexible lookup
Advanced lookupCreate a lookup that can search left
=INDEX(B:B, MATCH(A1, C:C, 0))How INDEX Works
INDEX finds the value at the intersection of the specified row and column in the range.
Important Notes & Limitations
Row and column numbers must be within the range.
For dynamic arrays, INDEX can return multiple values.
Common Errors & Fixes
#REF!Row/column number exceeds range sizeFix: Check your row and column numbers.
Download Practice File
INDEX
indexPractice INDEX with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the INDEX function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps
Related Tutorials
INDEX MATCH Formula
Master the INDEX MATCH formula in Excel and Google Sheets step by step: exact syntax, left lookups, two-way lookups, and how it compares to VLOOKUP and XLOOKUP.
Master INDEX/MATCH for Two-Way Lookups
Learn how to use INDEX and MATCH together to create powerful two-way lookups that work in any direction, unlike VLOOKUP.
VLOOKUP with Multiple Criteria
VLOOKUP only matches one column, but real lookups often need two or more. Learn four reliable ways to do a VLOOKUP with multiple criteria in Excel and Google Sheets.