COLUMN Google Sheet Formula
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COLUMN Formula Syntax
Example Use Case
Returning the column number of a reference for position-based calculations
Understanding the COLUMN Formula
The COLUMN function in Excel returns the column number of a cell or range reference. It's a positional tool for identifying locations—like determining positions or creating sequences based on column indexes.
COLUMN(B10) returns 2, as column B is the second column. It takes an optional reference parameter (defaults to the cell containing the formula), returning a column number—useful for dynamic positioning or arrays.
Why Use COLUMN?
COLUMN tracks horizontal position—think sequence generation or reference navigation. Its ability to identify column numbers enables position-aware formulas, especially valuable in array formulas or dynamic ranges.
Example with Sample Data
| Reference | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| B10 | =COLUMN(B10) | 2 |
| AA1 | =COLUMN(AA1) | 27 |
| [none] | =COLUMN() | [Current column] |
COLUMN identifies position: B10 is column 2, AA1 is column 27. It's a position reporter.
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