Function arguments in Excel are values or references you input into a function to perform a specific calculation or action. A comma separates each argument and defines the operation’s parameters. Understanding how to use function arguments allows you to make the most out of Excel’s capabilities.
Some function arguments are required, meaning the function won’t work without them, while others are optional. For instance, in the XLOOKUP function:
=XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode])
- The first three arguments are required: lookup_value, lookup_array, and return_array.
- The last three – [if_not_found], [match_mode], and [search_mode] – are optional. Optional arguments appear in square brackets, indicating they can be skipped. Optional arguments appear in square brackets.
Optional arguments provide flexibility. For example, [if_not_found] in XLOOKUP lets you define a custom message or result if the lookup value isn’t found. Without this, Excel would typically return an error.
How to use the Function Arguments Dialog Box
To edit a function, you can use the Function Arguments Dialog Box.
1. Select the cell that contains the function and use the Shift + F3 shortcut. (Or click the Insert Function button on the ribbon)
2. Excel will display the Function Argument Dialog box. As you can see in the picture below, the box shows the functions and arguments used!
4. Select the given argument and browse the value to add one or more arguments. Or type the value manually. In this example, you want to show the “Not found” output if the formula returns an #N/A error. Select the if_not_found box and type “Not found” to do that.
5. To edit the function, click on the box containing the argument you want to change. Then, select the source value using the reference editor icon or enter the value directly into the input box.
6. If you want to delete a part of the functions, use the backspace key.
7. Once your function is ready, click the OK button. Excel will close the dialog box and update the selected function.
Finally, here are some Excel functions without arguments.
- NOW()
- TODAY()
- FALSE()
- RAND()
By carefully selecting and understanding required and optional arguments, you make formulas more efficient and adaptable. Thank you for joining us today. To learn more about the functions, check out our definitive guide.