VLOOKUP from Another Sheet / Workbook

Last Updated :

21 Aug, 2024

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Vlookup is a function which can be used to reference columns from the same sheet or we can use it to refer it from another worksheet or from another workbook, the reference sheet is same as the reference cell but the table array and index number are chosen from a different workbook or different worksheet.

How to Vlookup from Another Sheet / Workbook?

We all know the basics of the VLOOKUP function in excel. Probably for beginners level, you must have practiced the formula from the same sheet itself. Fetching the data from another worksheet or from another workbook is slightly different using the VLOOKUP function in excel.

Let us have a look at how to use VLOOKUP from another sheet and then how it can be used on another workbook.

How to Vlookup from Another Sheet / Workbook?

#1 - VLOOKUP from Another Sheet but Same Workbook

Now copy the result table to another worksheet in the same workbook.

In the Result, Sheet opens the VLOOKUP formula and select the lookup value as cell A2.

Now the table array is on a different sheet. Select the Data Sheet.

Now, look at the formula in the table array. It does not only contain table reference, but it contains the sheet name as well.

Note: Here, we need not need to type the sheet name manually. As soon as the cell in the other worksheet is selected, it automatically shows you the sheet name along with the cell reference of that sheet.

After selecting the range in the different worksheets, lock the range by typing the F4 key.

Now you need not go back to the actual worksheet where you are applying the formula rather here itself. You can finish the formula. Enter the column reference number and range lookup type.

We got the results from the other worksheet.

VLOOKUP Excel Function Video Explanation

#2 - VLOOKUP from Different Workbook

We have seen how to fetch the data from a different worksheet in the same workbook. Now we will see how to fetch the data from a different workbook.

I have two workbooks; one is Data Workbook & Result Workbook.

From Data Workbook, I am fetching the data to Result Workbook.

Step 1: Open the VLOOKUP function in the Result workbook and select lookup value.

Step 2: Now go to the main data workbook and select the table array.

You can use Ctrl + Tab to switch between all the opened excel workbooks.

The table array not only contains table range rathbut it also, but it also contains Workbook Name, Worksheet Name, and data range in that workbook.

We need to lock the table array here. Excel itself locked the table array automatically.

Mention column index number and range lookup to get the result.

Now close the main workbook and see the formula.

It shows the path of the excel file we are referring to. It shows the complete file and subfile names.

We got the results.

Things to Remember About Excel Vlookup from Another Sheet (Same or Different Workbook)

We need to lock the table array range if you are fetching the data from the same worksheet or from different worksheets but from the same workbook.
We need to lock the table array range when the formula is applied to a different workbook. The formula automatically makes it an absolute reference.
Always remove VLOOKUP formulas if you are fetching the data from a different workbook. If you delete the workbook accidentally, you will lose all the data.

You can Download this Vlookup from Another Sheet or Workbook Excel template here – Vlookup from Another Sheet Excel Template.