Forum Discussion
HOW TO: "If cell contains specific text then return specific text"
- May 14, 2017
I'm sorry but i see no limitations which could prevent to use nested IF. The only point it is a bit less flexible compare to nested If equivalents.
But what to use depends on goals, in some cases quick hardcording works quite fine.
If use formatting nested if becomes much more clear and editable. Like this
=IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("Sales", B3,1)),"Sales",
IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("Arch", B3,1)),"Architecture",
IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("Land", B3,1)),"Land",
IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("All", B3,1)),"All",
IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("Contracts", B3,1)),"Contracts",
IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH("Construction", B3,1)),"Construction",
"No Match"
))))))
If instead of hardcoded strings use references nested IF becomes more flexible. And if add some extra references (nested if) for future strings to find it becomes even more flexible.
=IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$1,B3,1)),$G$1, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$2,B3,1)),$G$2, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$3,B3,1)),$G$3, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$4,B3,1)),$G$4, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$5,B3,1)),$G$5, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$6,B3,1)),$G$6, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$7,B3,1)),$G$7, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$8,B3,1)),$G$8, IF(ISNUMBER(SEARCH($F$9,B3,1)),$G$9, "No Match" )))))))))
I don't vote for nested IF, i would like to say where is no limitations here. What to use that's concrete person choice.
Hi Manoj,
It's worth to re-read task requirements and previous posts, your formula is about something different.
Dear Mr. Sergi,
Yes. You are absolutely right.
<it is worth to re-read the question>
I am a beginner in excel and I am always welcome one who gives valuable suggestion.
With best regards,
Manoj.