SEQUENCE Function
Generates a sequence of numbers in an array.
Syntax
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| rows | The number of rows in the result (must be a positive integer). | Required |
| columns | The number of columns in the result (defaults to 1). | Optional |
| start | The first value in the sequence (defaults to 1). | Optional |
| step | The increment between values (defaults to 1; may be negative). | Optional |
Basic Example
Make a column of 1 through 5
=SEQUENCE(5)With only rows supplied, SEQUENCE returns a 5-row, 1-column array starting at 1, stepping by 1.
Advanced Examples
Example 1: A grid with a step
Build a 3-row by 4-column table starting at 10, counting by 5.Supply rows, columns, start, and step
=SEQUENCE(3, 4, 10, 5)Example 2: Counting down
A row from 100 down to 60.Use a negative step
=SEQUENCE(1, 5, 100, -10)How SEQUENCE Works
SEQUENCE generates a two-dimensional array of sequential numbers. rows and columns set the shape (columns defaults to 1), start is the first value (default 1), and step is the increment (default 1, and may be negative). The array spills into the sheet.
Important Notes & Limitations
Microsoft 365 / Excel 2021+ only.
rows and columns must be positive integers; only step may be negative.
Spills, so it needs empty space below/right.
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE! (negative size)rows or columns is negative or non-integer.Fix: Use positive integers; only step may be negative.
#SPILL!No room for the spilled array.Fix: Clear the cells in the spill range.
Download Practice File
SEQUENCE
sequencePractice SEQUENCE with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the SEQUENCE function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps