Microsoft® Excel® provides an easy way to find similar values between multiple lists using the Exact function in Excel. By applying this function you will be able to find out the exact match between two strings of data. When you are working in Excel, text differences within a cell can often be troublesome, that’s why it is important to identify and remove varying information.
In our example, we explain how you can use the Exact function to compare two product lists. We’ll work through the spreadsheet and compare client details as an accounts clerk to ensure that the information is the same.
Apply the Exact function to check whether two text strings are exactly the same. It will return the following results; TRUE if they match and FALSE if otherwise. It is important to note that the Exact function is also case sensitive.
Note: Download the workbook to practice
Applies To: Microsoft Excel 2010 and 2013
1. Select cell E2. Then select the Formulas tab, and select Text.
2. Select Exact.
3. Ensure the cursor is in the first text box (Text1) and select cell A2.
4. Then click in the second text box (Text2) and select cell C2.
5. Select OK. Now you can copy the formula down to cell E46.
As you can see, TRUE means there is a match and FALSE otherwise. This is how you can easily identify discrepancies between the two lists.
