This guide shows you how to use the Excel FILTER function. I break down the syntax, provide practical examples, and share a video that demonstrates the process. You can also follow along with my examples to see how to use =FILTER() in Excel.
Table of Contents
The Syntax of the FILTER Function in Excel
To understand any function, you need to grasp its internal logic. Here’s a detailed explanation of the syntax for the Excel FILTER function:
=FILTER(array, include, [if_empty])
- array: The range of data you want to filter.
- include: The condition or criteria for filtering the data.
- [if_empty]: (Optional) The value to return if no data meets the criteria. If omitted, it defaults to #N/A.
The formula outputs a dataset that matches your specified filter criteria.
Why Do I See #SPILL! with the FILTER Function?
One common error with the FILTER function is #SPILL!. This occurs when there isn’t enough room for the function’s result to be displayed. Essentially, it means that there is other data in the cells where the FILTER function needs to return its results. For more details on resolving this issue, check out my YouTube video linked below.
Feedback On Your Spreadsheet
Want to use the filter function in a specific way? Let us know. You can use this spreadsheet assistant to get feedback on your unique situation. Just describe what your spreadsheet looks like and what you want to do. We’ll come up with a formula to help.
Practical Example: Using FILTER for Expenses
Here’s a practical example of how to use the Excel FILTER function to display specific, filtered data from your workbook. Follow along with the workbook linked below:
Here’s how the unfiltered data looks: Start by copying your headers into a new area. Although this example shows the headers in the same spreadsheet, it’s often better to use a separate tab for the filtered data. Simply copy your headers from the raw data to the new area. Next, use the FILTER function to import the data into the new area. In my example, the formula looks like this:
=FILTER(A2:C10, B2:B10="Expenses")
This formula filters the data range A2:C10 and includes only rows where the column B contains the text “Expenses”.
Video Guide: The FILTER Function
For a step-by-step demonstration, watch my video tutorial:
Conclusion
Using the Excel FILTER function can greatly enhance your data analysis by allowing you to focus on specific subsets of your data. By understanding the syntax and addressing common issues like the #SPILL! error, you can effectively leverage this function to streamline your workflow.
