How to Use the COLUMN Function in Excel

Do you want to learn how to use the COLUMN function in Excel? If so, you have come to the right place! In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to use COLUMN. We will cover what the COLUMN function does, how to use it, and some examples of how it can be used in your own spreadsheets. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced Excel user, this blog post has something for you!

What Does the COLUMN Function Do?

The COLUMN function in Excel returns the column number for a reference or a range. For example, COLUMN(C15) would return 3, since C is the third column in the spreadsheet. When no reference is provided, COLUMN returns the column number of the cell which contains the formula.

This is one of the more basic functions in Excel. There are few applications for this function, but we wanted to make certain this website covers anything and everything about Excel.

Where To Find It?

Option 1:

The COLUMN function can be found in the Formulas tab of Excel under Lookup & Reference

Option 2:

You can use Formula Builder to walk you through the formula step by step.

Option 3:

You can manually type the formula into any cell.

The Formula

=COLUMN(reference)

reference (optional) – this can be a single column reference or a range for multiple column references. If you leave reference blank, it will default to the column that contains the formula

The COLUMN Function in Excel's formula builder

Let’s Take a Look at an Example

Excel Workbook

Workbook_COLUMN_Function-2

Exmple

Here are a few of the simplest examples we’ve ever published on this website.

First, we will use COLUMN to return the column for one cell. The formula is simply the cell reference nested within COLUMN or =COLUMN(F10). This returns a 6 as F is the 6th column.

Second, we will use COLUMN to return the columns for one range. The formula is the range reference nested within COLUMN or =COLUMN(F:H). This returns an index showing 6, 7, and 8 in consecutive cells.

Lastly, we will use COLUMN to return the column number for the column containing the formula. Really getting crazy with these examples. Using the information above, can you get the formula to return a 3 for column C?

Three examples of using the COLUMN Function in Excel

Tips and Tricks

I got a #NULL error?

This means that you didn’t fill out your arguments in the correct format. You may have entered A 4 instead of A4 or B2C4 instead of B2:C4. Check your entry and try again.

Let’s Recap

The COLUMN function is a basic but useful function in Excel. It can be used to return the column number for a reference or a range. It is easy to use, and there are few applications for it. However, it is important to know all the basics if you want to be an Excel master!

Have any questions? Are there other topics you would like us to cover? Leave a comment below and let us know! Make sure to subscribe to our Newsletter to receive exclusive financial news right to your inbox.