index with match vs offset with match
What is the difference between using index with match and offset with match?
Hi Jaycus!
Thanks for reaching out.
The difference can be best understood after watching the following two lectures, as well as completing the relevant exercises.
https://learn.365datascience.com/courses/advanced-microsoft-excel/advanced-excel-functions-index-match-index-match
https://learn.365datascience.com/courses/advanced-microsoft-excel/advanced-excel-functions-offset-offset-match
As guidelines, you should perhaps focus on how to use MATCH() first. MATCH() returns the relevant position of an item within an array. In other words, it "delivers" an integer to us.
Then, we can use this integer to indicate the location of a cell by using INDEX() or OFFSET().
Regarding the differences between INDEX() and OFFSET(), we can say that INDEX() is used to "directly" indicate an array/range of cells, while OFFSET() if used to indicate a reference to a range that is located at a specified number of rows and columns from another cell (or range of cells).
Hope this helps.
Best,
Martin
Hi Martin,
Thanks!
Was just curious on the differences as I was able to obtain the desired value using both nested function index(match()) & offset(match()).
Great! You are welcome!
Good luck and please feel free to post another question should you encounter any difficulties. Thank you.
Best,
Martin