Left Lookup in Excel

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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