Lookup
SORT
Definition
SORT returns the values of a range put in order.
Syntax
=SORT(array)
Arguments
| Argument | Meaning |
|---|---|
array |
The cells to order, such as A2:A4. |
Worked example
A mill lists three batch sizes that need to be read in ascending order. Sizes are in A2:A4.
| A: Size |
|---|
| 4 |
| 1 |
| 9 |
Formula: =INDEX(SORT(A2:A4),1)
Result: 1. Sorted, the sizes are 1, 4, and 9, and INDEX takes the first so the cell stays a single value.
Practice
Cells A2:A4 hold 9, 2, and 5. In B2, write a formula that returns the first value after sorting that range.
- In B2, write an INDEX and SORT formula that returns the first value of A2:A4 sorted ascending.
- B2 should show the first value of A2:A4 sorted ascending.
Step 1 of 2
Enter =INDEX(SORT(A2:A4),1) in B2.
Sorted, 9, 2, and 5 start with 2.
Formulas here use English function names, such as SUM, and a period as the decimal separator, in every language.
Loading the sheet…
B2 uses SORT.
B2 now shows 2.
Related functions
INDEX picks one cell from the sorted list. INDIRECT can feed SORT a range whose address is stored as text.
Common mistake
Leaving SORT to spill when the checker reads one cell: wrap INDEX around SORT so B2 holds a single value.