Errors in Excel
In Excel, there are several error functions that help you handle and manage errors that may occur in your formulas and calculations. These error functions allow you to control how Excel responds when certain conditions are not met or when errors occur. Here are the main error functions in Excel, along with examples and explanations:
Error
The ###### error emerges when a column isn’t broad enough to display a number in full. For instance, an increased column width can solve this problem.
Syntax Example: Not applicable to this error as it’s related to the width of the column, hence no particular syntax exists for this error.
#CALC! Error
The #CALC! error pertains to the calculation issues in relation to array formulas. For example, the FILTER function is inherently dynamic and does not currently support empty arrays. If the condition defined within the include argument results in an empty array, a #CALC! error will result.
Syntax Example: =FILTER(array, include, [if_empty])
Try to recheck the condition to get rid of #CALC! error in excel.
#DIV/0! Error
This error occurs when the user attempts to divide a number by zero, representing mathematically impossible operations. It can thus be fixed by adjusting the divisor or wrapping the division formula within an IFERROR function in excel.
Syntax Example: =IFERROR(B5/C5, “Value is not acceptable”)
#N/A Error
The ‘#N/A’ error appears frequently when utilizing lookup functions. It signifies that the searched value isn’t available. This error can be resolved by inspecting typos, altering the format to Number, or using the TRIM function for removing extra spaces.
Syntax Example: =IFNA(VLOOKUP(D2, A2:B5, 2, FALSE), “Not Found”)
#NAME? Error
The ‘#NAME?’ error arises when Excel can’t recognize the function name you’re trying to employ. Always ensure accurate spelling and correct use of the equal sign.
Syntax Example: =IFERROR(SUM(A1:B5), “Function Not Recognized”)
#NULL! Error
When Excel returns ‘#NULL!’, it implies an intersection operation between ranges that don’t intersect. It means either you missed to mention comma or semi colon. Resolving this error involves mitigating incorrectly placed spaces.
Syntax Example: =A1:B5 B1:C3
#NUM! Error
The ‘#NUM!’ error surfaces when a formula or a function deals with numeric values that are too large or too small. This can be rectified by adjusting the formula to fit within Excel’s numeric constraints.
Syntax Example: =IFERROR(5^10000, “Invalid Number”)
#REF! Error
The ‘#REF!’ error displays when a formula references a cell, row, or column that has been deleted. Reinstating the deleted references or using absolute references can solve this error.
Syntax Example: =SUM($A$1:$B$5)
#SPILL! Error
This error appears when a dynamic array function returns multiple values but encounters at least one cell that already holds a value. To solve it, clear the spill range of values or convert the function to a singular output.
Syntax Example: =IFERROR(UNIQUE(A1:A10), “SPILL Error”)
#VALUE! Error
When you observe a ‘#VALUE!’ error, it expresses an unexpected character in a formula or a mismatched value type. You can resolve this by checking your syntax rules carefully.
Syntax Example: =IFERROR(MID(A1, 5, 2), “Value Error”)
You can read more on error functions in excel from this link.
Click here to get the working excel file for more clarification.
Each error function provides a clear understanding of where the formula went wrong and how to correct it. Excel’s error messages are not just errors but guides to refine your work in the spreadsheet. Remember, every error is an opportunity to learn and enhance your skills in Excel. So, keep Excel-ing!