FORMULATEXT Function

Description

The FORMULATEXT function returns a formula as a string.

Syntax

FORMULATEXT (reference)

Arguments

Argument Description Required/ Optional
reference A reference to a cell or range of cells. Required

Notes

  • The FORMULATEXT function returns what is displayed in the formula bar if you select the referenced cell.

  • The Reference argument can be to another Worksheet or Workbook.

  • If the Reference argument is to another workbook that is not open, FORMULATEXT returns the #N/A error value.

  • If the Reference argument is to an entire row or column, or to a range or defined name containing more than one cell, FORMULATEXT returns the value in the upper leftmost cell of the row, column, or range.

  • In the following cases, FORMULATEXT returns the #N/A error value −

    • The cell used as the Reference argument does not contain a formula.

    • The formula in the cell is longer than 8192 characters.

    • The formula cannot be displayed in the Worksheet, for example, due to Worksheet protection.

    • If the Reference argument is to another Workbook that is not open.

    • If the Reference argument is to a cell whose formula cannot be viewed, for example, if it is protected.

  • Invalid data types used as inputs will produce a #VALUE! error value.

  • If the Reference argument is not a valid cell reference, FORMULATEXT returns the #VALUE! error value.

  • Entering a reference to the cell in which you are entering the function as the argument will not result in a circular reference warning. FORMULATEXT will successfully return the formula as text in the cell.

Applicability

Excel 2013, Excel 2016

Example

Formulatext Function
advanced_excel_lookup_reference_functions.htm
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