Name Range
A Named Range in Excel is a feature that allows you to assign a name to a specific cell, range of cells, formula, or constant. This makes it easier to reference cells without using cell addresses (like A1, B2:C5). Named ranges are particularly useful in large spreadsheets or complex formulas where direct cell references can be hard to track.
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Where is this option?
Formulas Tab–>Defined Names Group
When to use this option?
- Easier to Read Formulas: Formulas using names (like =SUM(Sales)) are more understandable than those using standard cell references (like =SUM(A2:A10)).
- Simplifies Updating Data: If the data range changes, you can update the named range without having to modify all related formulas.
- Reduces Errors: Using names reduces the likelihood of referencing the wrong cells.
Example:
Procedure to calculate total salary spent using name range
- Select data in Column C
- Formulas Tabà Defined Names Groupà Define Name
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The following box appears
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- Ensure all fields in the above box is filled like above click OK. Name should not contains spaces
- Then enter function like in any cell =SUM(totalsalary)
Note: You can also define new name by directly typing the name in NameBox
Practical Exercise:
Create a named range for the Sales column and calculate the total sales using the named range, using the following data
