How to use VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

Last updated: · By the DeskHowTo editorial team
Quick answer

In Google Sheets: =VLOOKUP(search_key, range, index, FALSE) for an exact match. Example: =VLOOKUP(E2, A2:C100, 3, FALSE).

Prefer XLOOKUP when available: =XLOOKUP(E2, A2:A100, C2:C100). Use $A$2:$C$100 when filling formulas down.

On this page

VLOOKUP works in all Google Sheets. XLOOKUP is available in current Sheets for Google accounts.

VLOOKUP step by step

  1. Put the lookup value in E2 (for example a product ID).
  2. In F2 type =VLOOKUP(E2, A2:C100, 3, FALSE).
  3. Press F4 (or add $) to lock the range if you will fill down: $A$2:$C$100.
  4. Press Enter, then fill down.

Common errors

  • #N/A: no match - check spaces and number vs text.
  • Wrong column: index counts from the first column of range.
  • Cannot look left: use XLOOKUP or INDEX/MATCH.

ARRAYFORMULA

To spill many lookups: =ARRAYFORMULA(IF(E2:E="",,VLOOKUP(E2:E,$A$2:$C$100,3,FALSE)))

Frequently asked questions

Is FALSE required?

Use FALSE (or 0) for exact match. TRUE is approximate and needs sorted data.

VLOOKUP across sheets?

Yes: =VLOOKUP(E2, Sheet2!A2:C100, 3, FALSE).

XLOOKUP vs VLOOKUP?

XLOOKUP is clearer and can return columns to the left.

Sources checked: Google Docs Editors Help. Verified October 2026.