Formula guide · Excel and Google Sheets · Updated May 13, 2026
How to Fix #NAME? in Excel and Google Sheets
Fix #NAME? errors caused by misspelled functions, missing quotes, unsupported formulas, or bad named ranges.
Quick Answer
#NAME? usually means the spreadsheet cannot recognize part of the formula, such as a function name or unquoted text.
Copyable Formula
=XLOOKUP(E2,A2:A100,D2:D100,"Not found")Syntax
Check function spelling, quoted text, named ranges, and function support.Excel and Google Sheets
Worked Example
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Misspelled function | Correct the function name |
| Text without quotes | Add quotes |
| Unsupported function | Use an alternative |
Result: Once every function, text value, and named range is recognized, the formula calculates normally.
Steps
- Check function spelling first.
- Put text criteria inside quotes.
- Confirm the function exists in your Excel or Google Sheets version.
- Check named ranges if the formula uses custom names.
Common Mistakes
- Using a newer Excel function in an older Excel version.
- Forgetting quotes around text like Paid or West.
- Deleting a named range that formulas still reference.
Excel vs Google Sheets Notes
The core idea works in both Excel and Google Sheets, but separators, function availability, and array behavior can vary by account, locale, and version.
Editorial check: This guide was last updated May 13, 2026. Formula behavior can vary by Excel version, Google Sheets rollout, and spreadsheet locale.