ROW Function in Excel
The ROW function returns the row number of a cell reference or the current row if no reference is provided, essential for dynamic formulas and array operations.
Excel
Google SheetsExcelGoogle Sheets=ROW([reference])Quick Answer
ROW function ROW function returns the row number of a cell reference or current row in Excel and Google Sheets. Syntax: `=ROW([reference])`.
=ROW([reference])- Saves 80% time building row-dependent logic
Practical Examples
Basic Row Number Display
Display the row number of the current cell
Sequential Counter Starting from 1
Create an auto-incrementing counter that starts at 1
Alternating Row Colors Formula
Create a conditional formatting rule for striped rows
Dynamic Range with ROW in INDEX
Extract specific rows from a dataset using ROW
Get Row Number of Specific Cell
Find the row number of a named cell or reference
Generate Array of Row Numbers
Create an array of sequential row numbers for a range
Dynamic Data Extraction with ROW
Extract every nth row from a dataset using ROW
Common Errors and Solutions
ROW returns #VALUE! error
The reference provided is not a valid cell or range reference, such as text strings or invalid syntax.
1. Check that the reference is a valid cell address (e.g., A1, B5:B10) 2. Remove quotes around cell references - use ROW(A1) not ROW("A1") 3. Verify the reference exists in your worksheet 4. Use ROW() without arguments if you want the current row
Always use proper cell reference syntax without quotes. Test the reference by clicking on it to ensure Excel recognizes it as a valid range.
Example:
ROW shows #REF! error
The cell or range reference has been deleted, or the formula references a cell on a deleted worksheet.
1. Check if the referenced cells still exist 2. Update the formula to point to valid cells 3. If using ROW() without arguments and getting #REF!, the row itself may have been deleted 4. Review recent deletions and restore or update references
Use named ranges instead of direct cell references for critical formulas. Consider using dynamic references like OFFSET or INDIRECT for more flexibility.
Example:
Formula returns multiple values when one was expected
ROW was given a range reference like A1:A10 instead of a single cell, causing it to return an array of row numbers.
1. If you need only one row number, reference a single cell: =ROW(A1) 2. If working with arrays intentionally, wrap in an array formula or use with SUMPRODUCT 3. For Excel 365/Sheets, embrace the spill behavior or use @ operator to force single result 4. Use INDEX to extract a specific row from the array: =INDEX(ROW(A1:A10),1)
Be clear about whether you want a single value or an array. For single values, always reference one cell. For arrays, ensure your formula is designed to handle multiple values.
Example:
Sequential counter doesn't start at desired number
The adjustment calculation (like ROW()-1) doesn't account for the actual starting row of the formula.
1. Identify which row contains your first formula (e.g., row 2) 2. Calculate adjustment: desired_start - actual_row (e.g., 1-2 = -1) 3. Use formula: =ROW()+adjustment 4. For starting at 1 from row 2: =ROW()-1 5. For starting at 10 from row 5: =ROW()+5
Always note the starting row of your formula and test the counter with sample data. Document the adjustment value for future reference.
Example:
Spreadsheet slow when using ROW in many cells
While ROW itself is fast, using it in thousands of volatile formulas or with slow functions like INDIRECT can cause performance issues.
1. Limit use of ROW with volatile functions (TODAY, NOW, RAND, INDIRECT) 2. Use ROW in helper columns instead of embedding in complex formulas 3. Convert formula results to values for static data using Paste Special > Values 4. Consider using tables with structured references instead of ROW-based logic
Profile your spreadsheet performance and identify bottlenecks. Use ROW judiciously in large datasets, especially when combined with resource-intensive functions.
Example:
Best Practices and Advanced Tips
Dynamic Array Generation
Use ROW with array formulas for powerful numbering. For example, =ROW(1:10) creates an array of numbers 1 through 10. This is perfect for creating custom numbering schemes and array-based calculations without helper columns.
Efficient Array Formulas
When building array formulas with ROW, use ROW(1:1000) instead of ROW(A1:A1000) for better performance. The shorter syntax processes faster and doesn't require column references when you only need row numbers.
Named Ranges for Clarity
Instead of hardcoding row calculations, use named ranges with ROW for more maintainable formulas. Define StartRow as a name, then use =ROW()-StartRow+1 for clarity.
Avoid with Volatile Functions
Be cautious combining ROW with INDIRECT, OFFSET, or other volatile functions. Each recalculation triggers reevaluation, potentially slowing down large spreadsheets. Use direct references when possible.
Conditional Formatting Patterns
ROW is excellent for creating visual patterns. Use =MOD(ROW(),3)=0 for every third row, =MOD(ROW(),5)=1 for 1st, 6th, 11th rows, or combine with COLUMN for checkerboard patterns.
Platform Compatibility
ROW works identically in Excel (all versions), Google Sheets, and Excel Online. However, dynamic array behavior differs in pre-365 Excel versions, where you must use Ctrl+Shift+Enter for array formulas.
Testing Dynamic Formulas
When building formulas with ROW, test insertion and deletion scenarios. Add rows above your formula and verify the counter adjusts correctly. This validates your ROW logic handles dynamic changes.
ROWS vs ROW
Don't confuse ROW (returns row number) with ROWS (counts rows in range). ROW(A1:A10) returns array {1,2,...,10}, while ROWS(A1:A10) returns single value 10. Use ROWS to count, ROW for indexing.
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