Excel vlookup with wildcard in array. 3" and I get "Moderate" as hoped.

Excel vlookup with wildcard in array Master asterisk, question mark & tilde wildcards for efficient lookups. Nov 11, 2025 · This article highlights how to use excel formulas to match a wildcard in a lookup array. How to Use the XLOOKUP Excel Function with Multiple Criteria In the world of excel data analysis and microsoft excel tutorials, knowing about multiple criteria is key. Question): I have data that contains first & last name & I want to extract the sales by employees first or last name (not full name). In the example shown, the formula in G5, copied down, is: =VLOOKUP (E5,INDIRECT ("vendor_"&F5),2,0) where vendor_a (B5:C8) and vendor_b (B11:C14) are named ranges or Excel Tables. In the example shown, the formula in E6 is: =MATCH ("*"&E5&"*",TEXT (data,"0"),0) where data is the named range B5:B15. I need to lookup a value that contained in a cell as a part of string. Jun 12, 2021 · To look up a value based on a variable table, you can use the VLOOKUP function together with the INDIRECT function. Here a guide to using them. Jul 9, 2025 · The Excel VLOOKUP function is used to retrieve information from a table using a lookup value. The goal of the challenge is to use the lookup table in D2:E10 to assign the phrase to one of the names in TeachExcel explained how to perform a Vlookup (vertical search/return) for partial string matches and return all results using a non-Office 365 approach. I have two years of data, and in the year I am using for the lookup value, there is only a FirstName and LastName. Is there any way I can do this? It looks like the wildcard option in Xlookup only works on the lookup value, not the lookup array. VLOOKUP supports wildcards for powerful partial-matching: use the asterisk (*) for “any number of characters”, the question mark (?) for “exactly one character”, and the tilde (~) to treat wildcards literally, enabling flexible lookups when exact keys don’t exist or vary in format. Apr 30, 2024 · Method 3 – Applying Excel XLOOKUP to Lookup a Partial Text Match with a Wildcard Character The XLOOKUP function searches a range or an array for a match and returns the corresponding item from a second range or array. The use of AI tools (e. Feb 9, 2023 · Learn how to use Excel's VLOOKUP function for both Mac and PC. I cannot figure out how to get the formula to figure out if the wildcards mean: Begins with, Ends with or Contains. Oct 23, 2023 · VLOOKUP option The VLOOKUP formula also supports wildcards when set to exact match. Explore symbols like *, ?, and ~ with real-world use cases in COUNTIF, VLOOKUP, SEARCH, and more. It can look up both vertically and horizontally and perform an exact match (default), approximate (closest) match, or wildcard (partial) match. This guide walks you through instructions to perform partial data searches, enhancing your lookup capabilities Note: XLOOKUP uses a lookup array and a return array, whereas VLOOKUP uses a single table array followed by a column index number. 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. May 20, 2023 · Replace “lookup_value,” “lookup_array,” and “return_array” with the appropriate ranges or values, and include the “*” wildcard character in the lookup criteria. VLOOKUP() itself can only use the first 255 characters. Array Formulas with SEARCH and INDEX/MATCH – Suitable for flexible, dynamic partial searches especially in conjunction with FILTER. Column A are sample values of extracted codes and Column E are sample of transforming condition (The required Aug 15, 2024 · Learn how to use VLOOKUP for a partial match in any table array of Excel. As the formula is copied down, it returns a cost for each color using the vendor in column F to 15 hours ago · VLOOKUP with Wildcards & Helper Columns – Useful for basic partial match scenarios when you can predefine substrings. Jan 8, 2025 · What is VLOOKUP and When Should You Use It? VLOOKUP allows you to search for and retrieve data from Excel tables or ranges using a unique lookup value like an ID, product key or category. Return multiple matches with wildcard VLOOKUP Mr. Basically, I want to search through my bank statement (with weird values, only a part of which contains useable, searchable data), then match the bank statement name column up with a pre-made list of search terms, and return the category that I assigned to the search Feb 6, 2020 · Learn all about the new Excel XLOOKUP Function. I have another sheet on a different tab with a list of companies that another division works with, "Reg". 11. Use the VLOOKUP function to search for a partial match. See full list on exceldemy. Apr 16, 2022 · Hi, Could anyone please help if it is possible to create vlookup with wildcards in table array? or how to create formula to lookup values in attached sample case? I need to transform extracted system account codes with related attributes into another system account format code. With SEARCH and FIND It is also possible to use the SEARCH and FIND functions to perform a "contains" type match with XLOOKUP. It is not the wildcard aspect. If a user is believed to have used such tools to provide a forum answer, sanctions may be imposed. the new formula doesn't seem t be working on my spreadsheet. any sugges Nov 1, 2021 · Similar Threads [SOLVED] Wildcards in the table_array of vlookup By jhg05003 in forum Excel Formulas & Functions Replies: 7 Last Post: 05-28-2020, 01:52 AM Oct 30, 2023 · I've new to the forum and tried searching for my query, but haven't come across my exact scenario. Mar 20, 2025 · What is XLOOKUP? XLOOKUP helps you find a value in a range or array. g. Mar 14, 2023 · The tutorial shows how to make Excel IF statement with wildcard text and get it to work for partial matches. In the example above it is looking for "*Elevator 456*" in column A of sheet code. VLOOKUP is a powerful function in Excel that allows users to search for a value in the first column of a table and return a value in the same row from a specified column. If you’ve ever wanted to perform a partial match in Excel — like finding any cell that contains the word “Smith” — you’re in luck. Mar 25, 2022 · Microsoft Excel’s XLOOKUP() is powerful, but combined with wildcards, it’s also flexible. The table_array has some values that contain wildcards. We also learned to use them together with two important Excel functions. The one change here is that the table_array argument is placed within the TEXT () function in order to convert the numbers to text so that the function will work Mar 27, 2009 · Re: vlookup table array wildcard? So both files are coming through email; the one containing the lookup and the one that is being referenced? If so; Sounds like the easiest way is to follow Domenic's logic and have a cell designated in the "lookup" file which the receiver of the email can simply type in the name of the other file upon receiving it. VLOOKUP supports approximate and exact matching, and wildcards (* ?) for partial matches. One is a list of wildcards, and the other is another list of values. A guide to VLOOKUP Wildcard. Aug 30, 2024 · The VLOOKUP function is one of the most used and powerful Excel functions 💪 It helps us look up values from our datasets in a few seconds. Excel is an incredibly powerful tool, but its true magic lies in its flexibility. The lookup values must appear in the first column of the table, and the information to retrieve is specified by column number. You can do it by checking each value and loading the matching ones in to a dictionary, then filter by the array of keys. Quickly learn how to create an Excel XLOOKUP wildcard formula. What makes the VLOOKUP more powerful is that you can find lookup values from partial matches too 🤯 That’s possible by using wildcards in your VLOOKUP formulas. This is a Vlookup function that is using a partial match wildcard, the asterisk. Cells B4:E4 allow you to include or exclude specific conditions using drop down lists. Jun 10, 2024 · Here, you will learn how to return array using the XLOOKUP in Excel. You’ve probably wrestled with VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, maybe even INDEX and MATCH, cobbling together fragile formulas just to fetch one value from another table. The RegEx match feature is rolling out to Excel 365 users over time, and may not yet be available in your version when you read this. Next to the column on the first sheet, I want an additional column to contain a formula that will check the value in the first column against the wildcards in the second sheet. The result is 7 since the number in B11 (the seventh row in data) contains 99. Complete Guide with Screenshots & More. +Video May 26, 2024 · For years, VLOOKUP reigned supreme as the go-to function for data lookups in Excel. why does my formula in G2 not correctly wildcard match one of the values in the lookup array? Jun 3, 2021 · To retrieve information from a table based on a partial match, you can use the VLOOKUP function in exact match mode with a wildcard. Feb 4, 2014 · Hi Everyone, I need to do a "reverse" vlookup, using a wildcard of some sort. Aug 20, 2024 · Learn how to use wildcards with VLOOKUP in Excel. XLOOKUP is a modern and flexible replacement for older functions like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and LOOKUP. Note: In older versions of Excel that do May 6, 2020 · Re: vlookup with wildcard not working I have uploaded a spreadsheet with both the new and previous formula. That would allow you to keep your original structure, if that is important to you. Jul 13, 2024 · Master VLOOKUP with multiple table arrays in Excel. Oct 18, 2021 · VLOOKUP is a worksheet function, for use with ranges of cells (or worksheet tables) but not for VBA arrays. Learn advanced techniques, boost efficiency, and streamline data analysis across multiple sheets and tables. For the best help attach a sample workbook to your post Attention - ExcelForum Rules have been updated as of August 2023. Jan 25, 2024 · I am trying to find a match on two criteria where one of arrays has Wildcards that are built into the Name Variation column. Useful step-by-step example you can use right now. It works for both vertical and Excel How To use Wildcard with XLOOKUP and FILTER Excel University 56. Note that match_mode must be set to 2 to use wildcards with XLOOKUP. However, some of the names in the lookup array contain middle names. Includes numerous formula examples in Excel and VBA (WITH PICTURES). VLOOKUP Function – Introduction VLOOKUP function is THE benchmark. 3a etc I get "#N/A" as the wildcard is not working. Excel had a "challenge of the month" June/July 2008 about Wildcard VLOOKUP: "The data in column A contains a series of phrases. May 31, 2022 · Can someone help me with a question: Im trying to find the lookup value in column A, in column B. Discover practical examples using *, ?, and ~ in filtering, VLOOKUP (), and more. The TRANSPOSE function is optional and used here only to convert the result from XLOOKUP to a vertical array. Aug 21, 2022 · It only works if the text in column "Description" matches an item from the lookup array exactly. The country needs to be exact match. (There are ways to handle that, but that isn't the point here. XMATCH supports approximate and exact matching, reverse search, and wildcards (* ?) for partial matches. I have a sheet with an exhaustive list of the companies that we work with. ) How do I add the wildcard funcationality? Sample code and data =VLOOKUP(A47,'HPSM Data'!AL1:AM10,2,FALSE) Cell A47 IM30203310650 Column AL May 6, 2025 · The Excel XLOOKUP function is a powerful tool designed to look up a value in one range and return a corresponding value in another range — it supports approximate and exact matching, wildcards, regular expressions (regex), reverse searches, and lookups in vertical or horizontal ranges. You know something in Excel if you know how to use the VLOOKUP function. How to do a vlookup with a wildcard but the wildcard is in the lookup array as opposed to the lookup value? Feb 10, 2022 · EXCEL 365 - Use wildcard with the lookup_array part of the INDEX MATCH function Asked 3 years, 9 months ago Modified 3 years, 9 months ago Viewed 599 times Excel offers nearly 20 worksheet functions that support the ability to use wildcards in their arguments to filter results. Please post your discoveries in the comments below for all to share. 3" and I get "Moderate" as hoped. You will also learn about the FILTER function as a alternative. Here we discuss two wildcard characters - Asterisk (*) & Question Mark(?), examples & downloadable excel template. Jul 5, 2024 · How to use the VLOOKUP function with partial text from a single cell in Excel. Filter(sourcearray, match, [ include, [ compare ]]) Dec 26, 2023 · Most of the time, I use wildcards in VLOOKUP to get a match when my lookup table contains longer descriptions of which a part might match my lookup value. Apr 7, 2025 · We explain different types of Excel VLOOKUP wildcard. Feb 10, 2023 · This Article Reviews Different ways you can Use Wildcard Characters to Make VLOOKUP more flexible. This is an array formula and must be entered with Control Guide to VLOOKUP Wildcard. Jan 22, 2014 · Similar threads A Wildcards in Vlookup not working when searching different worksheet Akira181 Apr 28, 2025 Excel Questions Replies 7 Views 301 Apr 28, 2025 Short video showing you how to use a cell to set up Dynamic wildcard criteria substring which can be referenced in a VLOOKUP formula for Dynamic searching values where you don't know the full Jul 3, 2024 · 7 suitable methods to VLOOKUP and return data based on all matches in Excel. . It's better than VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and some uses of INDEX-MATCH. According to surveys by leading spreadsheet analytics firms, over 90% of Excel users leverage some form of lookup function like […] Jan 12, 2014 · Other topics about vlookup: The basic of vlookup Tips in constructing vlookup vlookup with Match vlookup options – True or False? Advanced vlookup – Text vs. 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. The equivalent VLOOKUP formula in this case would be: =VLOOKUP (F2,B2:D11,3,FALSE) =VLOOKUP("12*",TEXT(A1:B3,"0"),2,FALSE) Array Formula - this is an array formula and that means that you must enter it using Ctrl + Shift + Enter. A comparable VBA function that you might have more luck with is Filter. In the example shown, the formula in F5 is: XLOOKUP ("*"&G4&"*",data [Title],data,,2) Where G4 contains a partial string to look for and data is an Excel Table in the range B5:D16. In this guide, we're going to show you how to use Wildcard criteria in Excel formulas. approximate match, and more. Have a quick look through the article to learn that. Every phrase contains one color in the phrase. Jul 13, 2024 · Learn how to use wildcards with XLOOKUP in Excel for powerful, flexible data searches. For 12. Learn how to use it here. With the help of wildcards, filter functions, and a two-way lookup feature, VLOOKUP can be used to make complex lookups within a table. But with the introduction of XLOOKUP in Excel 365 and later versions, a new era of data lookup efficiency has dawned. Here we learn to use VLOOKUP with wildcards (Asterix & question mark), examples & downloadable excel template. 6K subscribers Subscribe I am trying to create an Index Match or X/VLookup where the lookup array has wildcards. We also share examples for each wildcard and explain how to troubleshoot any issues. I now have the opposite usecase; I have a Feb 12, 2015 · I have a worksheet where I need to find if values from one column exist in a range in another worksheet using VLOOKUP. One of the underrated features that every Excel user—from beginner to advanced—should master Mar 26, 2019 · The syntax for the VLOOKUP wildcard formula is similar to the standard VLOOKUP, with the addition of the wildcard characters in the lookup_value argument. Apologize in advance if it's duplicative. (See sample data below. Download a free workbook and practice yourself. In the example shown, the formula in H7 is: =VLOOKUP (value&"*",data,2,FALSE) where value (H4) and data (B5:E104) are named ranges. Aug 13, 2024 · To create a "contains substring" type lookup formula, you can use the XLOOKUP function with wildcards. However, the simplest solution is to use XMATCH() instead (as a much newer function, it is able to handle longer strings). return_array: The range/column from which I know how to use a wildcard with Vlookup on the reference value, but what about on the matched column index? I know you can do for instance VLOOKUP("*Hello*",A4:G4,2,FALSE) Sep 4, 2019 · Learn how the new XLOOKUP function can replace VLOOKUP or INDEX MATCH. Column A has multiple values in it, so I have been trying to use a wild card to find it. Includes downloadable file! Jun 8, 2025 · Master Excel's XLOOKUP function with this comprehensive guide. And for this, I have listed 5 real-life examples which can help you to understand this combination. Here you will find 10 XLOOKUP examples + download file Aug 18, 2015 · Wild Card Vlookup Table Array delpiero5464 Aug 18, 2015 excel formula vlookup wild card 2 days ago · This method employs array formulas (or dynamic arrays in Excel 365/Excel 2021) along with VLOOKUP or other lookup functions that support wildcards more naturally. Re: VLOOKUP - Wildcard not working Yes, the wildcard in VLOOKUP works the other way around from what you are thinking. This is an array formula. The 2nd sheet has about 1/5 of the entries of the May 14, 2024 · To perform a partial (wildcard) match against numbers, you can use an array formula based on the MATCH function and the TEXT function. The equivalent VLOOKUP formula for this example is: = VLOOKUP ("*" & E5 & "*",B5:C15,2,0) Full explanation here. Aug 31, 2011 · The tilde wild card allows you to search for words that contain a wild card - either * or ?. It allowed you to find specific values based on a matching criterion, revolutionizing spreadsheet operations. Array formulas allow you to perform multiple calculations on one or more items in an array, while VLOOKUP is designed to search for Dec 30, 2022 · This tutorial explains how to use a VLOOKUP function with an array formula in Excel, including an example. Nov 19, 2024 · FAQ Q1: Do all versions of Excel support XLOOKUP and RegEx? A: XLOOKUP is available in Excel 365 and Excel 2021+. XLOOKUP Function in Excel The XLOOKUP function in Excel handles vertical or horizontal arrays and supports exact matches, wildcards, and binary searches. It is a more robust and flexible successor to the MATCH function. chatGPT, BARD, GPT4 etc) to create forum answers is not permitted. Aug 23, 2023 · The tutorial shows how to use VLOOKUP in Excel with many practical examples: Vlookup from another sheet, from a different workbook, with wildcards, exact match vs. Aug 30, 2024 · The guide above runs us through the smart use of Excel wildcard characters through practical examples. Excel’s VLOOKUP supports wildcards, letting you create dynamic, flexible searches that don’t require exact values. For example, to find a product name that contains the word “shirt,” you can use the formula =VLOOKUP (“*shirt*”, table_array, column_index_num, FALSE). Jan 6, 2020 · Wildcard represents one or more other characters. Sep 27, 2024 · Master Excel formula for partial matches using VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, Filter and more Examples. So today in this post, I’d like to share with you how to use wildcard characters with VLOOKUP. XLOOKUP offers a more versatile, user-friendly, and powerful approach, addressing Nov 8, 2024 · Learn how to use XLOOKUP to match text values with the help of the 5th argument, wildcard character match mode. Mar 10, 2023 · VLOOKUP is a powerful Excel function that can be used to quickly lookup data from tables. There are other formulas you can use Wildcards with so feel free to experiment. Number Advanced vlookup – Wildcard Characters “?” and “*” Alternative to vlookup – Index and Match Three different ways to do case-sensitive lookup Sep 5, 2017 · I understand the basic use of the vlookup with wildcard but I'm running into a problem lately. Feb 3, 2025 · Back to top 6. Array formulas and VLOOKUP are two powerful tools in the arsenal of Excel users, offering a way to perform complex calculations and data retrieval with relative ease. In the below Sample I look up Jun 4, 2025 · The Excel XMATCH function performs a lookup and returns a position of a value in a range. XLOOKUP also handles more types of searches, like approximate and wildcard matches. Aug 25, 2023 · The array has the operator xlFilterValues which means it's looking at the whole value. Feb 2, 2024 · Excel XLOOKUP function - syntax and uses The XLOOKUP function in Excel searches a range or an array for a specified value and returns the related value from another column. ) INDEX/MATCH has the same problem. com May 28, 2020 · I am trying to reclassify a large data set where a range of lookup values relate to one classification and to do this I would like to use the wildcard in the in ‘table_array’ as shown below. Nov 21, 2025 · Using the VLOOKUP Excel function can save you a ton of time when searching your spreadsheets. Jun 22, 2025 · Wildcard in Excel – Full Guide with Examples for Beginners to Experts Learn how to use wildcard in Excel like a pro. Enjoy learning! I'm trying to perform a lookup on a table where some of the records in the lookup table have a wildcard- for example The lookup value is something like 300-10-20 and the lookup array has 100-10-10, 200-10-10 and 300-10-*. Mar 9, 2022 · When I use the VLookup it works fine for the plain number "12. Its versatility is further enhanced when combined with wildcard characters, which are symbols that represent one or more In this article we will learn how to use Vlookup function with wildcard in excel. It's way better than VLOOKUP or INDEX/MATCH. Q2: Can I use XLOOKUP for vertical and horizontal lookups? A: Yes! XLOOKUP can replace both VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. lookup_array: The range/column where Excel will search. Plus features for partial matches with wildcards and reverse order lookup. For example, here is what I am trying to do Aug 19, 2025 · Learn how to look up partial text matches in Excel using VLOOKUP with wildcards, INDEX & MATCH combo, and IF for conditional results. Mar 14, 2023 · Everything you need to know about wildcards: what wildcard characters Excel recognizes, and how to best use them with built-in features and in formulas with text and numbers. May 11, 2024 · To perform a partial match with XLOOKUP, supply 2 for the match mode argument to allow wildcards. Simply placing the tilde before the asterisk tells Excel that the asterisk is not to be used as a wildcard. Learn syntax, examples, and advanced techniques for modern lookup formulas that replace VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. Download our practice workbook, modify data and exercise! Mar 9, 2007 · I would like to pull data from the Table Array (in column AM) if the information in Cell A47 shows up anywhere in Column AL. These rules apply to everyone for the benefit of all, please take a moment now to Jul 24, 2014 · Learn how to use wildcards with VLOOKUP in Excel to efficiently search and match data, expanding your data lookup capabilities. May 30, 2025 · Learn how Excel's wildcard characters enhance flexibility in search, replace, and formula logic. Nov 14, 2013 · Hello all, I am trying to do a VLOOKUP. Wildcard lookups and include or exclude criteria - Excel 365 The image above shows an Excel 365 formula that extracts records from a data set located on sheet2 based on criteria specified in cells B3:E5. Apr 6, 2025 · VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP are limited to searching up and down or left to right. Apr 9, 2025 · 2. Here's my situation. I think you are trying to figure whether any of the words in column A of code can be found in A2 of desc. I wanted to try to make a dynamic array formula solution. ahugmh cylc vvv tddl kyweeton spbhc temudf cel geqb ajyca qfys rvoor sctj zyqdx oysf