Case Functionality - Index/Match versus Choose versus offset
When building case functionality in excel, which is your favorite function to toggle between different scenarios and why? I heard and I typically used Index/Match for a few years but the new bank that I've come to loves to use Choose. Is this common across the street? Does it matter whether you use one or the other?
Ah, the great Excel debate! It's like asking someone to pick their favorite child, isn't it?
Now, I've seen a lot of folks use INDEX/MATCH, and it's a solid choice. It's versatile, powerful, and once you get the hang of it, it can be a real game-changer. It's great for looking up data in a table when you don't necessarily know which column or row the item is in. It's like VLOOKUP's beefier cousin.
On the other hand, CHOOSE is a bit of an underdog. It's not as commonly used, but it can be quite handy. It allows you to select one of up to 254 values based on the index number. It's a bit simpler than INDEX/MATCH, but it doesn't offer the same level of flexibility.
OFFSET is another interesting one. It's a bit more complex, but it can be incredibly powerful when used correctly. It allows you to refer to a range that is a certain number of rows and columns away from a certain cell or range of cells.
As for which one is the best, it really depends on the situation and personal preference. Some folks swear by INDEX/MATCH, while others prefer the simplicity of CHOOSE or the power of OFFSET. It's like choosing between a Swiss Army knife, a simple pocket knife, and a multi-tool. They all have their uses, and the best one for the job depends on the task at hand.
So, in the end, it's not so much about what's common across the street, but more about what works best for you and the task at hand. Keep experimenting and you'll find the tool that fits your hand just right. Happy Excel-ing!
Sources: Makena Capital, Year 1 in consulting - tips, tricks, advice, and unspoken rules., What additional Excel functions do you wish for?, Excel Formulas you use constantly on the job?
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