Clear, practical technology insights BSOD Code Lookup · Windows Error Code Lookup · Wi-Fi Troubleshooting · PC Troubleshooting Checklist

How to Use the CHOOSE Function in Excel

Learn how to use CHOOSE Function in Excel, including its purpose, syntax, examples, and common errors, with clear step-by-step guidance.

Table of Contents

This guide explains how to use CHOOSE Function in Excel, including its syntax, required arguments, practical examples, and common errors.

How to Use the CHOOSE Function in Excel screenshot

Below the article describes, syntax and examples of using CHOOSE function in Excel, please follow along and learn.

Description of the Choose function

The Choose function will return a value in the input value values based on the index_num index you specified. You can understand the CHOOSE function to help find a value in a value chain, this function is used quite often when combined with other functions.

The syntax of the Choose function

= CHOOSE (index_num; value1; [value2];.)

Inside:

  • Index_num is a required argument, this is the index you specify the return value in the argument list.
  • Value1 is a required argument, this is the value or reference to the first value in the value list of the CHOOSE function.
  • Value2. is an optional argument, these are the next values in the CHOOSE function's value list. Excel supports up to 254 values, values can be numbers, cell references, defined names, formulas, functions, or text.

Note

  • If index_num is 1, CHOOSE will return value1; similarly if index_num is 2 then CHOOSE will return value2.
  • If index_numindex_num is greater than the index of the last value in the argument list, CHOOSE will return the #VALUE! Error value.
  • If index_num is a fraction (decimal), it will be the lowest integer to use.
  • The value1, value2. arguments of the CHOOSE function can be range references as well as individual values.

Example of the Choose function

Example 1: Using the Choose function returns the value 2.

Example of the Choose function screenshot 2

Example 2: Use the CHOOSE function in combination with the SUM function to sum.

Suppose you have the following data table:

Example of the Choose function screenshot 3

Request:

1. Calculate the total amount sold.

You enter the function

= SUM (CHOOSE (2; D6: D14; E6: E14))

According to the above function, CHOOSE will return data in columns E6: E14, then the SUM function will sum the values in columns E6: E14.

Example of the Choose function screenshot 4

To apply the calculation to the following request, while entering the SUM formula combined with the CHOOSE function, press the F4 key after selecting each Value value in the CHOOSE function. From function

= SUM (CHOOSE (2; D6: D14; E6: E14))

you guys will be functional

= SUM (CHOOSE (2; $ D $ 6: $ D $ 14; $ E $ 6: $ E $ 14))

Example of the Choose function screenshot 5

2. Calculate the total quantity sold.

You only need to copy the function formula when you have fixed the data ranges.

Example of the Choose function screenshot 6

Then correct the index_num index to 1 (the Sales Quantity column) so that CHOOSE returns the range of data in the Sales Quantity column and the SUM function sums the values in this column.

Example of the Choose function screenshot 7

Above TipsMake. vn has shared with you the description, syntax and examples of using CHOOSE function in Excel. In addition to using CHOOSE function in combination with SUM function, you can use CHOOSE function in combination with other functions such as IF, VLOOKUP, WEEKDAY. to be able to process data effectively. Good luck!

FAQ

What does the CHOOSE function do in Excel?

The CHOOSE function performs the calculation described in this guide. Use the correct arguments and compatible data types for reliable results.

How do I enter the CHOOSE function correctly?

Start with an equals sign, enter CHOOSE, add the required arguments inside parentheses, and confirm that cell references and separators are correct.

Why does the CHOOSE function return an error?

Common causes include missing arguments, invalid data types, incorrect cell references, unsupported values, or regional separator settings.

Discussion

Reader Comments 0

Sign in with email or Google to join the discussion.