Explanation

MATCH function is a function which is used when we want to find the position of a certain value within a row or a column. The position is represented as a relative number.

For example, in the array of {“A”,”B”,”C”}, the position of “B” is 2.

MATCH is usually used as part of the INDEX MATCH function combination.

Syntax

=MATCH(lookup_value, lookup_array, [match_type])

lookup_value – The value that we are looking for

lookup_array – The range in which we want to find the value – Could be a row or a column (For example: A1:A7, or B3-E3)

[match_type] – The options for this argument are: -1 , 0 or 1. We will use the argument of 0 in 99% of the time as this means we want EXACT match. -1 and 1 will cause the function to look for approximate match, and can be useful when we are looking for approximate numerical match. Do not use – 1 / 1 values here unless you know what you’re doing.

Please note – although [match_type] is regarded as optional, we strongly recommend to use this argument and type 0 when MATCH is used, as the default value when this argument is left empty is 1 – which may cause your match function to work incorrectly.

Practice MATCH function

Let’s see how this function works!

 

Can't access the exercise? Below you can find the link to download the Excel file: 

Match.xlsx (2452 downloads )