How to Use the ISNUMBER Function in Excel
Today, we’ll discuss the ISNUMBER function, a versatile tool available in both Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets. This function is instrumental in determining whether a given value is numeric. We will cover how to utilize this function effectively in both applications.
Excel:
In Excel, the ISNUMBER function evaluates whether a specific value is numeric, returning TRUE for numbers and FALSE for non-numeric values.
The syntax for the ISNUMBER function is as follows:
ISNUMBER(value)Here, value represents the cell reference or value that you wish to test.
Consider the following examples to better understand how the ISNUMBER function operates in Excel:
| Value | ISNUMBER Result |
|---|---|
| 123 | =ISNUMBER(123) |
| ABC | =ISNUMBER(“ABC”) |
In the first example, =ISNUMBER(123) correctly returns TRUE, indicating that 123 is indeed a number. Conversely, =ISNUMBER("ABC") in the second example returns FALSE, as “ABC” is not a numeric value.
Google Sheets:
In Google Sheets, ISNUMBER functions similarly, returning TRUE for numbers and FALSE for non-numeric values.
The syntax for ISNUMBER in Google Sheets mirrors that of Excel:
ISNUMBER(value)Check out these examples in Google Sheets:
| Value | ISNUMBER Result |
|---|---|
| 456 | =ISNUMBER(456) |
| XYZ | =ISNUMBER(“XYZ”) |
Here, =ISNUMBER(456) returns TRUE, affirming that 456 is a number, while =ISNUMBER("XYZ") returns FALSE, verifying that “XYZ” is not a number.
The ISNUMBER function is incredibly useful for confirming the numeric nature of values in both Excel and Google Sheets. It is especially beneficial in tasks such as data validation, applying conditional formatting rules, or filtering datasets based on numerical conditions.
More information: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/is-functions-0f2d7971-6019-40a0-a171-f2d869135665