Have you ever encountered the mysterious #REF error when using the ARRAY_ROW function in Google Sheets? You’re not alone! Join me as we unravel the secrets behind this error and discover the solution to fix it.
Understanding the ARRAY_ROW Function
Before we dive into the #REF error and its solution, let’s first understand the ARRAY_ROW function. Now, I must confess, the ARRAY_ROW function is somewhat of an enigma in Google Sheets. It’s not officially documented, but that doesn’t mean it’s not useful!
The ARRAY_ROW function allows you to combine equal-sized arrays or ranges horizontally. Traditionally, we would use curly brackets to achieve this. However, the ARRAY_ROW function provides an alternative approach.
Here’s the syntax for the ARRAY_ROW function:
ARRAY_ROW(range1, [range2, ...])range1: The first range to combine horizontally.range2, ...: Additional ranges to combine with range1. The number of rows in these additional ranges should match range1.
Example: Combining Ranges Horizontally
To illustrate how the ARRAY_ROW function works, let’s consider an example. Imagine you have cost centers (project codes) in cells A2:A5 and corresponding labor strengths in cells Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 in the range of cells B2:E5.
Now, what if you want to copy the cost center and Q3 and Q4 data to a separate range? Here’s the formula you can use:
=ARRAY_ROW(A2:A5, D2:E5)
Alternatively, you can achieve the same result using curly brackets:
={A2:A5, D2:E5}
Unraveling the #REF Error
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the dreaded #REF error. The #REF error occurs when there is a mismatch between the row sizes of the ranges you’re trying to combine using the ARRAY_ROW function or curly brackets.
There are two common scenarios that can lead to this error:
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Combining ranges vertically: Sometimes, you may unintentionally place two ranges side by side instead of one below the other. This mistake causes a mismatch in the rows of the two ranges.
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Combining formula results horizontally: In certain cases, you may intentionally combine two formula results horizontally, but these formulas have mismatching row sizes. For example, if you’re using two IMPORTRANGE formulas from different sheets.
Resolving the #REF Error
Fortunately, there’s a solution to the #REF error that depends on your specific use case. Here are two approaches you can take:
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Appending ranges vertically: If you want to append two or more ranges vertically, it’s best to avoid using curly brackets altogether. Instead, you can use the VSTACK function.
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Placing ranges side by side: If you want to place two or more ranges side by side, you can use the HSTACK function. This function ensures that you won’t encounter the #REF error.
In our previous example, instead of using curly brackets, you can use the HSTACK function like this:
=HSTACK(A2:A10, D2:E5)
To ensure a clean result, I recommend wrapping the formula with the IFNA function:
=IFNA(HSTACK(A2:A10, D2:E5))
The HSTACK function will place the ranges side by side, and using IFNA will clean any “new” rows with #NA error values.
So, the next time you encounter the ARRAY_ROW function #REF error in Google Sheets, don’t panic! Just remember to use the appropriate function, either VSTACK or HSTACK, depending on your specific needs.
Now that we’ve uncovered the secrets behind the ARRAY_ROW function and its solution, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to good use. Happy sheeting!
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