If function

 

What is the IF Function?

The IF function allows you to make decisions in Excel by performing a logical test. Based on whether the test is TRUE or FALSE, Excel can return different results. This is perfect for scenarios where you want specific outcomes based on data conditions.

IF Function Syntax:

=IF(logical_test, value_if_true, value_if_false)

• logical_test: The condition you want to check.
• value_if_true: The result if the logical test is TRUE.
• value_if_false: The result if the logical test is FALSE.

Example 1: Simple IF Statement

Let’s say we have a list of scores and want to assign a “Pass” or “Fail” based on whether the score is above 50.

Formula:

=IF(A2 > 50, "Pass", "Fail")

If the score in cell A2 is above 50, Excel will return “Pass.” Otherwise, it will return “Fail.”

Example 2: Nested IF Statements

You can also nest multiple IF functions to create more complex conditions. For example, assigning letter grades based on score ranges.

Formula:

=IF(A2 >= 90, "A", IF(A2 >= 80, "B", IF(A2 >= 70, "C", "D")))

Using IF with Other Functions

You can combine the IF function with other functions like AND, OR, and ISERROR to broaden its capabilities.

Example with AND:

Check if a score is above 50 and if attendance is above 75%.

=IF(AND(A2 > 50, B2 > 75), "Eligible", "Not Eligible")

Common IF Function Errors and How to Fix Them

• #NAME? Error: Often caused by misspelling the function.
• #VALUE! Error: Occurs if one of the arguments is invalid, such as text in a logical test.