Excel 2016 Bible

Chapter 17Introducing Array Formulas

IN THIS CHAPTER

1. Defining arrays and array formulas
2. Comparing one-dimensional and two-dimensional arrays
3. Working with array constants
4. Working with array formulas
5. Looking at examples of multicell array formulas
6. Looking at examples of single-cell array formulas

One of Excel's most interesting (and most powerful) features is its ability to work with arrays in formulas. When you understand this concept, you'll be able to create elegant formulas that appear to perform spreadsheet magic.

This chapter introduces the concept of arrays and is required reading for anyone who wants to become a master of Excel formulas. Chapter 18, “Performing Magic with Array Formulas,” continues with lots of useful examples.

Most of the examples in this chapter are available on this book's website at www.wiley.com/go/excel2016bible. The filename is array examples.xlsx.

Understanding Array Formulas

If you do any computer programming, you've probably been exposed to the concept of an array. An array is a collection of items operated on collectively or individually. In Excel, an array can be one dimensional or two dimensional. These dimensions correspond to rows and columns. For example, a one-dimensional array can be stored in a range that consists of one row (a horizontal array) or one column (a vertical array). A two-dimensional array can be stored in a rectangular ...