How to Use the HYPERLINK Function in Excel

Today, we will explore the HYPERLINK function provided by Excel and Google Sheets. This function enables the creation of clickable hyperlinks in a cell, linking to web pages, specific files, different locations within the same document, or email addresses.

Basic Syntax

The HYPERLINK function has a straightforward syntax:

=HYPERLINK(link_location, [friendly_name])

• link_location: The destination the hyperlink points to. This can be a URL, a file path, a cell reference within the workbook, or an email address.
• friendly_name: [Optional] The text displayed as the clickable link in the cell. If omitted, the cell will display the link_location itself.

Examples of Usage

Linking to a Website

To create a hyperlink to “www.example.com” with the display text “Visit Example”, use:

=HYPERLINK("http://www.example.com", "Visit Example")

Linking to a File

To link to a file called “Sample.xlsx” located on your desktop, use:

=HYPERLINK("C:\\Users\\YourName\\Desktop\\Sample.xlsx", "Open Sample File")

Linking to a Cell in the Same Sheet

To create a hyperlink to cell B10 in the same sheet:

=HYPERLINK("#'Sheet1'!B10", "Go to B10")

Linking to an Email Address

To create a hyperlink that opens an email window with the address “example@example.com” and the subject “Feedback”, use:

=HYPERLINK("mailto:example@example.com?subject=Feedback", "Send Email")

Additional Tips

• Cell references can replace the link_location or friendly_name to dynamically generate hyperlinks based on cell content.
• Enclose file paths and URLs in double quotes to ensure they are interpreted correctly.
• The HYPERLINK function is consistent across both Excel and Google Sheets, facilitating a seamless experience between these platforms.

By mastering the HYPERLINK function, you enhance the interactivity and user-friendliness of your documents by providing swift access to essential resources.

More information: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/hyperlink-function-333c7ce6-c5ae-4164-9c47-7de9b76f577f