Enhance your analysis by combining data sets from different topics into a single query tab or dashboard visualization. Insights makes this process super easy with the XLOOKUP functionality. This guide will walk you through what XLOOKUP is and how to use it to merge data from multiple tabs within the same workbook.
❓ What Is XLOOKUP?
XLOOKUP allows you to perform cross-tab analysis by searching for a value in a specified range in another query tab and returning the corresponding value from another specified range. It's a powerful way to combine related data from different sources within your workbook.
Syntax:
phpCopy codeXLOOKUP(lookup_value, <query_tab_name>!<lookup_range>, <query_tab_name>!<return_range>)
Example:
If you have a state abbreviation in cell C1 of your current tab and want to find its corresponding motto from another tab named State Mottos, you would use:
lessCopy codeXLOOKUP(C1, 'Forecast and Budget'!A:A, 'Forecast and Budget'!B:B)
This formula searches for the value in C1 within column A of the State Mottos tab and returns the corresponding value from column B of the same tab.
🛠️ How to Use XLOOKUP
Step 1: Prepare Your Data
Identify the Common Field: Determine the common field (e.g., Stay Month) that exists in both tabs. This field will serve as the link between the data sets.
Ensure Matching Data Types: Make sure the common field is formatted the same way in both tabs (e.g., 2024-01).
Step 2: Use XLOOKUP to Combine Data
Add a New Column:
In your main query tab, add a new column where you want to bring in data from another tab.
For example, add a column titled Forecast.
Enter the XLOOKUP Formula:
In the first cell under the new column, enter the XLOOKUP formula.
Reference your common field and specify the lookup and return ranges from the other tab.
Example Formula:
lessCopy code=XLOOKUP(A1, 'Forecast and Budget'!A:A, 'Forecast and Budget'!B:B)
A1refers to the Stay Month in the current row.'Forecast and Budget'!A:Ais the lookup range in the Forecast and Budget tab.'Forecast and Budget'!B:Bis the return range (e.g., Forecast Revenue) in the same tab.
Repeat for Additional Data:
To bring in more fields (e.g., Budget), add another column and adjust the return range in your XLOOKUP formula.
Example:
lessCopy code=XLOOKUP(A1, 'Forecast and Budget'!A:A, 'Forecast and Budget'!C:C)
Here,
'Forecast and Budget'!C:Crefers to the Budget Revenue column.
(Optional) Use the Copy XLookup Reference Feature
To simplify the process, you can use the Copy XLookup Reference option:
Click on the column header menu of the field you want to reference.
Select Copy XLookup Reference.
Paste this reference into your XLOOKUP formula.
💡 Tips and Best Practices
Reference Full Columns:
Always reference a full, single column in your lookup and return ranges (e.g.,
'Forecast and Budget'!A:A).Avoid referencing multiple columns or specific cell ranges (e.g.,
'Forecast and Budget'!A:Cor'Forecast and Budget'!A1:A4).
Common Use Cases:
Time Series Joins: Combine time-based data across different tabs.
Fact Lookups: Bring in specific details or metrics from another data set.
Ensure Data Consistency:
Check that your common fields match exactly in both tabs to avoid errors.
🎥 Watch the Tutorial Video
For a step-by-step demonstration, watch the tutorial video below:
🤝 Need Assistance?
If you have any questions or need further help, our Advisory Team is available via chat to assist you.