Which Excel function works best to look up matching values from 2 different workbooks?

[Isa25]

Hello,

I need to match values to names from 2 different spreadsheets. It’s data I downloaded that contains values that need to be entered into a main spreadsheet. I just need to match the names to the values so I don’t have to do this manually. It’s only about 15 names and values but I’m sure there’s a quick way to do this.
I tried the Vlookup, Match and Index Match functions but it’s not working. Maybe it’s just me not getting it but can someone please help?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[rlv01]

I have used VLOOKUP many times to search for a match in one spreadsheet (workbook) from a data table located in another spreadsheet (workbook). So in theory, it should work for you. But, as always, the devil is in the details.

 

[AhoyNC]

It would help if you could post a small sample.
What do you mean by "not working"? Are you getting an error msg, wrong answer???

 

[Isa25]

Okay thank you for your quick responses. I realize I may just not know how to use the Vlookup function properly but it shouldn't be that difficult! The last time I tried it I got a "SPILL" error. Can anyone recommend simple instructions to follow (either Youtube or some other website) on how to use Vlookup?

 

[rlv01]

If you go to YouTube and do a search on "vlookup" you will find many videos to choose from.

 

[rlv01]

Note that if you have Office 365, there is also the newer XLOOKUP function as well.

 

[AhoyNC]

Maybe one of these links will help.

#SPILL! error - Extends beyond the worksheet's edge - Microsoft Support