Unlock the power of Excel for data reconciliation. At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we’ll guide you through using VLOOKUP to compare two lists, identify discrepancies, and streamline your workflow. Master list comparison, find missing values, and perform data validation efficiently.
1. Understanding the Basics of VLOOKUP for List Comparison
VLOOKUP, or Vertical Lookup, is a powerful function in Excel used to find a specific value in a column (the “table array”) and return a value from another column in the same row. When comparing two lists, VLOOKUP can determine if a value from one list exists in the other. It works by searching for a “lookup value” in the first column of a specified range and, upon finding a match, returning a corresponding value from a column you designate.
1.1 What is VLOOKUP and How Does It Work?
VLOOKUP works like this: you give it a value to look for (the lookup_value), a range of cells to look in (the table_array), the column number within that range that contains the value you want to return (the col_index_num), and whether you want an exact or approximate match (range_lookup). This function is perfect for comparing two lists because it can quickly check if an item from one list is present in another. If the item is found, you know it exists in both lists. If it’s not found, VLOOKUP returns an error, indicating the item is missing from the second list. This allows you to identify discrepancies between your two lists quickly and accurately.
1.2 Scenarios Where VLOOKUP is Useful for Comparing Lists
VLOOKUP is extremely useful in various scenarios that involve comparing two lists. For example, accountants can use it to reconcile invoices by comparing a list of issued invoices with a list of received payments to identify outstanding payments. Retailers can compare inventory lists with sales data to find discrepancies or track which products are selling faster. HR departments can compare employee lists with training records to identify employees who need additional training. Project managers can compare a task list with a completed task list to see which tasks are still pending. In each of these cases, VLOOKUP automates the comparison process, saving time and reducing errors.
1.3 Advantages and Limitations of Using VLOOKUP
The advantages of using VLOOKUP to compare two lists include its speed and efficiency, especially with large datasets. It automates the comparison process, which reduces the risk of human error and saves a significant amount of time. The function is relatively easy to use once you understand its syntax and how to apply it.
However, VLOOKUP also has limitations. It can only look up values in the leftmost column of the table array. If the column you need to search is not the leftmost column, you’ll need to rearrange your data or use a different function like INDEX and MATCH. VLOOKUP also returns an error (#N/A) if it cannot find a match, which can be confusing for some users. Additionally, VLOOKUP requires an exact match by default, which might not be appropriate in all situations where approximate matches are needed. Despite these limitations, VLOOKUP remains a powerful and widely used tool for comparing lists in Excel.
2. Step-by-Step Guide on Using VLOOKUP to Compare Lists
To effectively use VLOOKUP to compare two lists, follow these steps. These steps will guide you through preparing your data, constructing the VLOOKUP formula, interpreting the results, and troubleshooting common issues.
2.1 Preparing Your Data for VLOOKUP
Before you start using VLOOKUP, ensure your data is properly prepared. First, organize your two lists in separate columns or sheets in Excel. Make sure that the column you will use as the lookup value (the value you will use to compare the lists) is in the leftmost column of your table array. This is a requirement for VLOOKUP to work correctly. If it’s not, you may need to move the column or use an alternative function like INDEX and MATCH. Next, ensure that the lookup values are unique. If there are duplicate values, VLOOKUP will only return the first match, which can lead to inaccurate comparisons. It’s also a good idea to check for any inconsistencies in your data, such as extra spaces or different text formats, which can cause VLOOKUP to fail to find a match.
2.2 Constructing the VLOOKUP Formula
The VLOOKUP function has four arguments: lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, and range_lookup. The lookup_value is the value you want to find in the first column of the table array. The table_array is the range of cells where you want to search for the lookup value and retrieve a corresponding value. The col_index_num is the column number in the table array from which you want to retrieve a value. The range_lookup is a logical value that specifies whether you want an exact match (FALSE) or an approximate match (TRUE).
Here’s the basic syntax:
=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, range_lookup)For example, if you want to compare a list of invoice numbers in column A of Sheet1 with a list of invoice numbers in column A of Sheet2, and you want to return the corresponding value from column B of Sheet2, your formula might look like this:
=VLOOKUP(A2, Sheet2!A:B, 2, FALSE)In this formula, A2 is the lookup value (the invoice number in Sheet1), Sheet2!A:B is the table array (the range of cells in Sheet2 where you want to search for the invoice number), 2 is the column index number (the column from which you want to retrieve a value), and FALSE specifies that you want an exact match.
2.3 Interpreting VLOOKUP Results
After entering the VLOOKUP formula, Excel will return one of two results: a value or an error. If VLOOKUP finds a match for the lookup value in the table array, it will return the corresponding value from the specified column. This indicates that the lookup value exists in both lists. If VLOOKUP does not find a match, it will return the #N/A error. This indicates that the lookup value is missing from the second list. You can use this information to identify discrepancies between the two lists and take appropriate action. For example, if you are reconciling invoices, you can use the #N/A errors to identify outstanding payments.
2.4 Handling Errors and Troubleshooting Common Issues
When using VLOOKUP, you may encounter errors such as #N/A, #REF!, or #VALUE!. The #N/A error indicates that VLOOKUP could not find a match for the lookup value in the table array. This can be caused by several factors, such as incorrect lookup values, inconsistencies in the data, or an incorrect table array. To resolve this error, double-check that the lookup value is correct, that the data is consistent, and that the table array is properly defined.
The #REF! error indicates that the column index number is invalid. This can happen if the column index number is greater than the number of columns in the table array. To resolve this error, ensure that the column index number is within the range of the table array.
The #VALUE! error indicates that there is a problem with the lookup value or the table array. This can be caused by incorrect data types, such as trying to look up text in a column of numbers. To resolve this error, ensure that the lookup value and the data in the table array are of the same data type. By understanding these common errors and how to troubleshoot them, you can use VLOOKUP more effectively and accurately.
3. Advanced Techniques for Comparing Lists with VLOOKUP
Once you’re comfortable with the basics of VLOOKUP, you can explore advanced techniques to enhance your list comparison capabilities. These techniques include using the IFERROR function to handle errors, combining VLOOKUP with other functions for more complex comparisons, and using conditional formatting to highlight differences.
3.1 Using IFERROR to Handle #N/A Errors
The IFERROR function is a powerful tool for handling errors in Excel, including the #N/A errors that VLOOKUP returns when it cannot find a match. IFERROR allows you to specify a value to return if a formula evaluates to an error. This can make your spreadsheets more user-friendly and easier to read. To use IFERROR with VLOOKUP, simply wrap the VLOOKUP formula inside the IFERROR function.
Here’s the syntax:
=IFERROR(VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, range_lookup), value_if_error)For example, if you want to return the text “Missing” instead of #N/A when VLOOKUP cannot find a match, your formula would look like this:
=IFERROR(VLOOKUP(A2, Sheet2!A:B, 2, FALSE), "Missing")This formula will return “Missing” if VLOOKUP cannot find the lookup value in the table array, making it easier to identify missing values in your list comparison.
3.2 Combining VLOOKUP with Other Functions for Complex Comparisons
VLOOKUP can be combined with other Excel functions to perform more complex comparisons. For example, you can use VLOOKUP with the IF function to perform conditional checks based on whether a value is found in the second list. You can also use VLOOKUP with the COUNTIF function to count the number of matches between two lists.
Here’s an example of using VLOOKUP with the IF function:
=IF(ISNA(VLOOKUP(A2, Sheet2!A:B, 1, FALSE)), "Missing", "Found")This formula checks if VLOOKUP returns an #N/A error using the ISNA function. If it does, the formula returns “Missing”. If VLOOKUP finds a match, the formula returns “Found”. This allows you to quickly identify which values are present in both lists and which are missing from the second list.
3.3 Using Conditional Formatting to Highlight Differences
Conditional formatting is another useful tool for highlighting differences between two lists. You can use conditional formatting to automatically format cells based on the results of a VLOOKUP formula. For example, you can highlight missing values in one list or highlight values that are different between the two lists. To use conditional formatting with VLOOKUP, select the range of cells you want to format, then go to Home > Conditional Formatting > New Rule. Choose “Use a formula to determine which cells to format” and enter a formula that uses VLOOKUP to check for differences.
For example, to highlight missing values in column A of Sheet1, you can use the following formula:
=ISNA(VLOOKUP(A2, Sheet2!A:A, 1, FALSE))This formula checks if VLOOKUP returns an #N/A error. If it does, the conditional formatting will be applied to the cell, highlighting it to indicate that the value is missing from the second list.
4. Practical Examples of VLOOKUP in Action
To further illustrate the power and versatility of VLOOKUP for comparing lists, let’s look at some practical examples. These examples cover different industries and scenarios, showing how VLOOKUP can be used to streamline data reconciliation, inventory management, and HR processes.
4.1 Example 1: Data Reconciliation for Accountants
Accountants often need to reconcile data from different sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. VLOOKUP can be a valuable tool for this task. For example, an accountant might need to compare a list of invoices issued by a company with a list of payments received from customers to identify outstanding invoices.
To do this, the accountant would first organize the invoice data and payment data into separate columns in Excel. The invoice data would include the invoice number, invoice date, and invoice amount. The payment data would include the payment date, payment amount, and invoice number to which the payment applies.
Next, the accountant would use VLOOKUP to compare the two lists, using the invoice number as the lookup value. The VLOOKUP formula would be entered in a new column in the invoice data, and it would search for the invoice number in the payment data. If VLOOKUP finds a match, it would return the payment amount. If it does not find a match, it would return an #N/A error, indicating that the invoice has not been paid.
Finally, the accountant would use conditional formatting to highlight the unpaid invoices, making it easy to identify and follow up on outstanding payments.
4.2 Example 2: Inventory Management for Retailers
Retailers need to manage their inventory effectively to ensure that they have enough stock to meet customer demand without holding too much excess inventory. VLOOKUP can be used to compare inventory lists with sales data to identify fast-selling and slow-selling products.
To do this, the retailer would first organize the inventory data and sales data into separate columns in Excel. The inventory data would include the product code, product name, and quantity on hand. The sales data would include the product code, product name, and quantity sold.
Next, the retailer would use VLOOKUP to compare the two lists, using the product code as the lookup value. The VLOOKUP formula would be entered in a new column in the inventory data, and it would search for the product code in the sales data. If VLOOKUP finds a match, it would return the quantity sold. If it does not find a match, it would return an #N/A error, indicating that the product has not been sold.
Finally, the retailer would use conditional formatting to highlight the fast-selling and slow-selling products, making it easy to adjust inventory levels accordingly.
4.3 Example 3: HR Processes for Human Resources
HR departments need to manage employee data effectively to ensure compliance with regulations and to support employee development. VLOOKUP can be used to compare employee lists with training records to identify employees who need additional training.
To do this, the HR department would first organize the employee data and training data into separate columns in Excel. The employee data would include the employee ID, employee name, and job title. The training data would include the employee ID, employee name, and training course completed.
Next, the HR department would use VLOOKUP to compare the two lists, using the employee ID as the lookup value. The VLOOKUP formula would be entered in a new column in the employee data, and it would search for the employee ID in the training data. If VLOOKUP finds a match, it would return the training course completed. If it does not find a match, it would return an #N/A error, indicating that the employee has not completed any training courses.
Finally, the HR department would use conditional formatting to highlight the employees who need additional training, making it easy to schedule and track training activities.
5. Alternatives to VLOOKUP for List Comparison
While VLOOKUP is a powerful tool for comparing lists in Excel, it’s not the only option. There are several alternatives that can be used in different situations, depending on your specific needs and data structure. These alternatives include INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, and Power Query.
5.1 INDEX and MATCH: A More Flexible Alternative
INDEX and MATCH is a more flexible alternative to VLOOKUP because it doesn’t require the lookup value to be in the leftmost column of the table array. INDEX returns the value of a cell in a table based on the row and column numbers you specify. MATCH returns the position of a value in a range of cells. By combining these two functions, you can perform lookups in any direction, making it easier to compare lists with different data structures.
Here’s the basic syntax for INDEX and MATCH:
=INDEX(array, MATCH(lookup_value, lookup_array, match_type))The array is the range of cells from which you want to retrieve a value. The lookup_value is the value you want to find in the lookup array. The lookup_array is the range of cells where you want to search for the lookup value. The match_type specifies whether you want an exact match (0), the largest value less than or equal to the lookup value (1), or the smallest value greater than or equal to the lookup value (-1).
For example, if you want to compare a list of invoice numbers in column A of Sheet1 with a list of invoice numbers in column C of Sheet2, and you want to return the corresponding value from column D of Sheet2, your formula might look like this:
=INDEX(Sheet2!D:D, MATCH(A2, Sheet2!C:C, 0))In this formula, Sheet2!D:D is the array (the column from which you want to retrieve a value), A2 is the lookup value (the invoice number in Sheet1), Sheet2!C:C is the lookup array (the column in Sheet2 where you want to search for the invoice number), and 0 specifies that you want an exact match.
5.2 XLOOKUP: The Modern Replacement for VLOOKUP
XLOOKUP is a modern replacement for VLOOKUP that was introduced in Excel 365. XLOOKUP offers several advantages over VLOOKUP, including the ability to look up values in any direction, the ability to return multiple values, and built-in error handling. XLOOKUP also has a simpler syntax than VLOOKUP, making it easier to use.
Here’s the basic syntax for XLOOKUP:
=XLOOKUP(lookup_value, lookup_array, return_array, [if_not_found], [match_mode], [search_mode])The lookup_value is the value you want to find in the lookup array. The lookup_array is the range of cells where you want to search for the lookup value. The return_array is the range of cells from which you want to retrieve a value. The if_not_found is the value to return if XLOOKUP cannot find a match. The match_mode specifies the type of match you want (0 for exact match, -1 for exact match or next smaller item, 1 for exact match or next larger item, 2 for wildcard match). The search_mode specifies the search direction (1 for search from first to last, -1 for search from last to first, 2 for binary search ascending order, -2 for binary search descending order).
For example, if you want to compare a list of invoice numbers in column A of Sheet1 with a list of invoice numbers in column C of Sheet2, and you want to return the corresponding value from column D of Sheet2, your formula might look like this:
=XLOOKUP(A2, Sheet2!C:C, Sheet2!D:D, "Missing")In this formula, A2 is the lookup value (the invoice number in Sheet1), Sheet2!C:C is the lookup array (the column in Sheet2 where you want to search for the invoice number), Sheet2!D:D is the return array (the column from which you want to retrieve a value), and “Missing” is the value to return if XLOOKUP cannot find a match.
5.3 Power Query: A Powerful Tool for Data Transformation and Comparison
Power Query is a powerful data transformation and analysis tool that is built into Excel. Power Query can be used to import data from multiple sources, clean and transform the data, and perform complex comparisons. Power Query is particularly useful for comparing lists with different data structures or for comparing lists that are stored in different files or databases.
To use Power Query to compare two lists, you would first import the two lists into Power Query. Then, you would use the Merge Queries function to combine the two lists based on a common column. This would create a new table that includes all the columns from both lists, with matching rows aligned. Finally, you would use the Add Column function to add a new column that indicates whether each row is present in both lists or only in one list.
6. Best Practices for Efficient List Comparison
To ensure that you are comparing lists efficiently and accurately, follow these best practices. These practices cover data preparation, formula optimization, and validation techniques.
6.1 Ensuring Data Consistency and Accuracy
Before you start comparing lists, it’s essential to ensure that your data is consistent and accurate. This includes checking for errors, inconsistencies, and duplicates in your data. Use Excel’s built-in data validation tools to restrict the type of data that can be entered in a cell and to prevent errors. Use the Remove Duplicates feature to eliminate duplicate rows in your lists. Use the Trim function to remove extra spaces from your data. By ensuring data consistency and accuracy, you can minimize errors and improve the reliability of your list comparisons.
6.2 Optimizing VLOOKUP Formulas for Speed
VLOOKUP can be slow when working with large datasets. To optimize VLOOKUP formulas for speed, use the following techniques. First, sort your data by the lookup column. This can significantly improve VLOOKUP’s performance because it can quickly find the lookup value without searching the entire table array. Second, use the FALSE argument for the range_lookup parameter to specify that you want an exact match. This can also improve VLOOKUP’s performance because it doesn’t need to perform an approximate match. Finally, avoid using VLOOKUP on entire columns. Instead, use a specific range of cells. This can reduce the amount of data that VLOOKUP needs to search, improving its speed.
6.3 Validating Results and Avoiding Common Pitfalls
After comparing lists, it’s essential to validate your results to ensure that they are accurate. This includes checking for errors and inconsistencies in your formulas. Use Excel’s formula auditing tools to trace errors and identify dependencies in your formulas. Use the Evaluate Formula feature to step through your formulas and see how they are being calculated. Avoid common pitfalls such as using incorrect lookup values, using incorrect column index numbers, and using incorrect table arrays. By validating your results and avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure that your list comparisons are accurate and reliable.
7. Automating List Comparison with Macros and VBA
For more advanced users, automating list comparison with macros and VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) can save even more time and effort. VBA allows you to write custom code to perform complex tasks in Excel, including comparing lists and generating reports.
7.1 Introduction to VBA for List Comparison
VBA is a powerful programming language that is built into Excel. With VBA, you can automate repetitive tasks, create custom functions, and build complex applications. VBA is particularly useful for list comparison because it allows you to write custom code to perform complex comparisons and generate reports based on the results.
7.2 Writing a Simple Macro to Compare Two Lists
To write a simple macro to compare two lists, you would first open the VBA editor by pressing Alt + F11. Then, you would insert a new module by going to Insert > Module. In the module, you would write the VBA code to compare the two lists.
Here’s an example of a simple VBA macro to compare two lists:
Sub CompareLists()
Dim List1 As Range
Dim List2 As Range
Dim Cell As Range
Dim Found As Boolean
' Set the ranges for the two lists
Set List1 = ThisWorkbook.Sheets("Sheet1").Range("A1:A10")
Set List2 = ThisWorkbook.Sheets("Sheet2").Range("A1:A10")
' Loop through the cells in List1
For Each Cell In List1
' Set Found to False
Found = False
' Loop through the cells in List2
For Each Cell2 In List2
' Check if the values match
If Cell.Value = Cell2.Value Then
' Set Found to True
Found = True
Exit For
End If
Next Cell2
' If the value was not found in List2, highlight the cell in List1
If Not Found Then
Cell.Interior.Color = vbYellow
End If
Next Cell
End SubThis macro compares two lists in columns A1:A10 of Sheet1 and Sheet2. For each value in List1, it checks if the value exists in List2. If the value is not found in List2, the macro highlights the cell in List1 in yellow.
7.3 Automating Report Generation with VBA
In addition to comparing lists, VBA can also be used to automate report generation. For example, you can write a VBA macro to generate a report that summarizes the differences between two lists, including the number of values that are present in both lists, the number of values that are missing from one list, and the number of values that are different between the two lists.
By automating list comparison and report generation with VBA, you can save even more time and effort and improve the accuracy and reliability of your data analysis.
8. Choosing the Right Method for Your Needs
Choosing the right method for comparing lists depends on your specific needs and data structure. Consider the size of your datasets, the complexity of your comparisons, and your level of expertise with Excel.
8.1 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Method
When selecting a method for comparing lists, consider the following factors:
- Size of the datasets: If you are working with small datasets, VLOOKUP may be sufficient. If you are working with large datasets, INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, or Power Query may be more efficient.
- Complexity of the comparisons: If you need to perform simple comparisons, VLOOKUP may be sufficient. If you need to perform complex comparisons, such as comparing lists with different data structures or comparing lists that are stored in different files or databases, INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, or Power Query may be more appropriate.
- Level of expertise with Excel: If you are new to Excel, VLOOKUP may be the easiest method to learn. If you are an experienced Excel user, you may prefer INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, or Power Query.
- Availability of Excel features: XLOOKUP is only available in Excel 365. If you are using an older version of Excel, you will need to use VLOOKUP or INDEX and MATCH.
8.2 VLOOKUP vs. INDEX and MATCH vs. XLOOKUP vs. Power Query
Here’s a comparison of VLOOKUP, INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, and Power Query:
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLOOKUP | Easy to learn, widely used | Requires lookup value to be in the leftmost column, limited error handling | Simple list comparisons, small datasets, users new to Excel |
| INDEX and MATCH | More flexible than VLOOKUP, can look up values in any direction | More complex syntax than VLOOKUP | List comparisons with different data structures, medium-sized datasets, experienced Excel users |
| XLOOKUP | Modern replacement for VLOOKUP, simpler syntax, built-in error handling | Only available in Excel 365 | List comparisons with any data structure, medium-sized datasets, Excel 365 users |
| Power Query | Powerful data transformation and analysis tool, can import data from multiple sources | Steeper learning curve, requires more setup | Complex list comparisons, large datasets, data from multiple sources, users with data transformation needs |
By considering these factors and comparing the different methods, you can choose the right method for comparing lists in Excel.
9. Real-World Success Stories
Discover how professionals across various industries leverage VLOOKUP to streamline data analysis and decision-making. These stories highlight the practical applications and impact of VLOOKUP in real-world scenarios.
9.1 How Businesses are Using VLOOKUP for Enhanced Efficiency
Businesses are using VLOOKUP for enhanced efficiency in a variety of ways. For example, a manufacturing company can use VLOOKUP to compare a list of raw materials with a list of finished products to identify any shortages or surpluses. A marketing agency can use VLOOKUP to compare a list of customer leads with a list of closed deals to measure the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns. A healthcare provider can use VLOOKUP to compare a list of patients with a list of medical procedures to identify any missing or incomplete records.
9.2 Improved Accuracy and Time Savings with VLOOKUP
One of the key benefits of using VLOOKUP is improved accuracy and time savings. By automating list comparison, VLOOKUP reduces the risk of human error and saves a significant amount of time. For example, an accountant can use VLOOKUP to reconcile bank statements in a fraction of the time it would take to do manually. A retailer can use VLOOKUP to track inventory levels in real-time, reducing the risk of stockouts and overstocks. A HR department can use VLOOKUP to manage employee data more efficiently, ensuring compliance with regulations and supporting employee development.
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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about using VLOOKUP to compare two lists:
10.1 Can VLOOKUP compare lists in different Excel files?
Yes, VLOOKUP can compare lists in different Excel files. To do this, you need to include the file name in the table array argument of the VLOOKUP formula.
10.2 What if my lookup value is not in the leftmost column?
If your lookup value is not in the leftmost column, you can use INDEX and MATCH or XLOOKUP instead of VLOOKUP.
10.3 How do I handle case-sensitive comparisons with VLOOKUP?
VLOOKUP is not case-sensitive by default. To perform case-sensitive comparisons, you can use the EXACT function in combination with VLOOKUP.
10.4 Can VLOOKUP return multiple values based on a single lookup value?
No, VLOOKUP can only return one value based on a single lookup value. To return multiple values, you can use XLOOKUP or Power Query.
10.5 How do I compare lists with different data types?
To compare lists with different data types, you need to convert the data types to be the same. You can use Excel’s built-in data conversion functions, such as TEXT, VALUE, and DATE, to convert the data types.
10.6 What is the difference between an exact match and an approximate match in VLOOKUP?
An exact match returns a value only if the lookup value is exactly the same as the value in the lookup array. An approximate match returns a value if the lookup value is within a specified range of values in the lookup array.
10.7 How do I use wildcards in VLOOKUP?
You can use wildcards in VLOOKUP to perform partial matches. The wildcard characters are * (asterisk) and ? (question mark). The asterisk represents any sequence of characters, and the question mark represents any single character.
10.8 Can VLOOKUP be used to compare lists in Google Sheets?
Yes, VLOOKUP can be used to compare lists in Google Sheets. The syntax is the same as in Excel.
10.9 How do I troubleshoot #N/A errors in VLOOKUP?
The #N/A error indicates that VLOOKUP could not find a match for the lookup value in the table array. This can be caused by several factors, such as incorrect lookup values, inconsistencies in the data, or an incorrect table array. To resolve this error, double-check that the lookup value is correct, that the data is consistent, and that the table array is properly defined.
10.10 Is there a limit to the size of the lists that VLOOKUP can compare?
There is no strict limit to the size of the lists that VLOOKUP can compare, but performance may degrade with very large datasets. For very large datasets, INDEX and MATCH, XLOOKUP, or Power Query may be more efficient.
By addressing these frequently asked questions, you can gain a better understanding of how to use VLOOKUP to compare two lists and how to troubleshoot common issues.
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