How to Use Named Ranges in Query in Google Sheets

Have you ever tried using Named Ranges in Query in Google Sheets? If so, you might have found it challenging to code your formula correctly. But fear not, because I’m here to help you master the art of using Named Ranges in Query!

What are Named Ranges?

Named Ranges allow you to customize the names of cells or ranges of cells in Google Sheets. For example, instead of referring to a cell as “A1,” you can give it a meaningful name like “Hello.” This makes your formulas easier to understand and maintain.

Using Named Ranges in Query can be a game-changer when it comes to data manipulation techniques in Google Sheets. But how exactly do you use Named Ranges in Query? Let’s find out!

Using Named Ranges in the Select Clause of Query

The Select clause in Query allows you to select specific columns or reorder them. For example, if you have a two-column dataset in the range A1:B, you can use Query to return only the second column by using the formula =QUERY(A1:B,"Select B").

But what if you want to use a Named Range instead of a column reference? Well, that’s where the magic happens! By using a helper cell, you can easily incorporate Named Ranges into your Query formula.

Here’s an example to help you understand:

1. In cell F1, enter the formula =left(address(row(B1),column(B1),4)). This formula extracts the column heading from cell B1.
2. Click on cell F1 and go to the menu Data > Named ranges. Name the range (cell F1) as “Age.”
3. Now, here’s the Query formula that includes the Named Range in the Select clause: =QUERY(A:B,"Select "&Age). This formula will dynamically select the column based on the Named Range “Age.”

Using Named Ranges in the Where Clause of Query

You can also use Named Ranges in the Where clause of Query to filter your data based on specific criteria. Here’s an example:

1. Let’s say you have a dataset where column A contains the first and last names combined. To filter the data by names in column A, enter the first name and last name separately in cells E2 and F2.
2. Name cell E2 as “FirstName” and cell F2 as “LastName.”
3. Now, use the Query formula =QUERY(A1:B,"Select * where A matches '"&join(" ",FirstName,LastName)&"'"). This formula will filter the rows that match the name “Sean Carter” in column A.

By following these examples, you can quickly learn how to use Named Ranges in Query in Google Sheets. It’s a powerful technique that will make your formulas more efficient and easier to manage.

So why wait? Start using Named Ranges in Query today and take your Google Sheets skills to the next level!

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Note: This article was originally published on bolamarketing.com