Optimization of VLOOKUP in Excel with wildcards

In Excel, you have a powerful function at your disposal that allows you to quickly search through data in large tables and retrieve relevant information. The VLOOKUP is a particularly popular tool for making associations based on specific criteria. In this guide, you will learn how to optimally apply the VLOOKUP and utilize additional search options such as wildcards to enhance your queries.

Key Takeaways

• Using wildcards in VLOOKUP allows you to create more flexible search queries.
• Using question marks (?) and asterisks (*) enables more effective finding of sub-sentences and variations.
• You can also search for imprecise or partial matches, which simplifies data handling.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Basics of the VLOOKUP Function

Before you begin with advanced usage, make sure you understand the basics of VLOOKUP. You start by entering the VLOOKUP function into the cell where the result should be displayed. Here you choose your search criteria and the matrix.

In our example, you have an Excel workbook where you have set up the sort order so that the names are at the beginning. This makes it easier for you to search, especially with longer lists.

Step 2: Applying the Wildcards

When searching for a specific name, you don't have to use the entire name. The wildcards you can use are the question mark (?) and the asterisk (*). With the question mark, you replace exactly one character, while the asterisk replaces any number of characters.

For example, if you search for "Becher Mix," you can also enter just "*Mix" to find all names that end with "Mix."

Step 3: VLOOKUP with Wildcards

Now let's test the flexible search function. Enter "*Mix" as a search criteria. Excel will list all items that end with "Mix."

If you simply want to use "Stern," enter "Stern" and "Ch Stern" to find the first hit that starts with "Ch."

Step 4: Combined Use of Wildcards

You can also combine wildcards. If you search for "Lampe" to find all items that start with "Lampe," it's simple: Use "Lampe." Excel will immediately show you relevant results.

However, if you need to replace a character exactly, use the question mark. For example, for "LampeX," simply enter "Lampe?"

Step 5: Uncertain Spellings

If you are unsure about how an item is spelled, the use of question marks is particularly valuable. Place a question mark in place of the unknown character. This can prevent errors when you don't have the exact spelling in mind.

In addition, you can also continue working with an asterisk. Simply enter "L Stern X" if you know the beginning of a term.

Step 6: Effective Use with INDEX and MATCH

Mention of INDEX and MATCH may be of interest to advanced users. These functions offer you an alternative method for data retrieval and can help increase flexibility in data analysis.

Take another look at this tutorial and make sure you can follow all the steps. If you have any questions, feel free to use the comments for additional information.

Summary

Throughout this guide, you have learned how to use VLOOKUP with additional functions like wildcards to efficiently search for data. From applying simple VLOOKUP functions to using wildcards for flexible search queries – you have the tools to optimize your Excel database searches.