COLUMN
The COLUMN function returns the column number for a given cell or range reference.
This function can be useful for creating dynamic formulas that automatically adapt when copied to the right/left, as well as for determining the position of data in a spreadsheet and organizing calculations that depend on the current column.
Syntax
COLUMN([reference])
| Argument | Description | Permitted values |
|---|---|---|
| [reference] | (optional) Cell for which the column number needs to be returned (column A corresponds to the value 1) If the argument is not specified, the cell containing this formula is used by default | Cell address, for example, A1 |
Example of use
Defining a column for a cell
=COLUMN(E8)
This formula will return 5, since cell E8 is in the fifth column.
Defining a column for a range
=COLUMN(A1:D4)
This formula will return 1, as the formula is located in cell A1 in column 1.
Notes
- The COLUMN function is useful in combination with other functions, for example, to automate calculations where the column position needs to be taken into account.
- When columns are inserted or deleted, the result of the function is automatically recalculated.
- When a formula is copied to the right or left, the result of the function changes automatically.
- When a range is specified, the number of the first column in that range is returned.