XLOOKUP & VLOOKUP Formula Builder

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EXCEL TUTORIAL · FREE TOOLS

XLOOKUP & VLOOKUP Formula Builder

Free online tool · No signup · Runs in your browser

Build a lookup formula from validated cell and range references, with exact or approximate matching and a choice of argument separator.

Your data stays in this browser tool. No account or upload to a processing service required.

Instructions

  1. Choose a function and lookup cell.
  2. For XLOOKUP enter matching lookup and return ranges.
  3. For VLOOKUP enter a table range and the return column position within it.
  4. Choose match mode and separator, then build, copy or download the formula.

Understanding your result

The example looks up E2 in column A and returns the corresponding column B value. “Not found” is the fallback for an absent exact match. Paste the generated formula into your workbook and test an existing key and an absent key before filling it down.

What to do if you have a problem

If Excel rejects the formula, check the argument separator and function availability. If VLOOKUP returns the wrong field, remember its return column is counted within the chosen table. For approximate matching, inspect the source order and confirm that this mode suits your lookup.

What to know before using the result

XLOOKUP requires Microsoft 365 or Excel 2021 or later. VLOOKUP is available in older Excel versions and searches the first table column. Its approximate mode requires ascending keys; XLOOKUP approximate mode uses exact or next smaller. Supports A1 cells and rectangular ranges, optionally with sheet names; excludes named ranges and external workbooks. Formulas are generated, not evaluated.

These tools work with pasted text or supported CSV files rather than Excel workbook files. CSV exports contain values and do not preserve workbook formatting, formulas or multiple worksheets. Formula builders produce formula text to use in Excel. Data processing runs in the browser tool.

Try an example

=XLOOKUP(E2,$A$2:$A$100,$B$2:$B$100,"Not found",0)

Summary

Paste the lookup formula into Excel and confirm it returns the intended field for known and absent keys.

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