Forum Discussion
Spill Error in Excel when using Table format.
I use array formulas retrieving data from Excel Tables frequently (ever since gaining access to the Dynamic Array functions).
My experience with the SPILL error is that it occurs when some cell or cells are occupied with data and in the way of the results of the array function spilling out to its fllest extent.
Are you using the formula IN the table itself? I can imagine that wouldn't work; never occurred to me to try it. They're excellent when retrieving data FROM an Excel Table.
So maybe you could clarify exactly what you're doing and wanting to do....
I agree with mathetes
For an array formula to work within a Table it must return only a single value; no spilling allowed. In such situations it can be useful to have the Table replicate the formula down the column to produce equivalent calculations for each record.
For array formulas that return multiple results as a spilt array, then one must place the formula outside the table, ideally with an intervening blank column (which can be reduced in width). As rows are added to the data table, the dynamic array formula will adjust accordingly if it involves a structured reference.
PeterBartholomew1 Hi Peter, thank you for your response. I now understand that I will need to have a blank column after my Table and then use the dynamic validation to get the unspilled results.
Regards
Aspi
PeterBartholomew1 wrote: As rows are added to the data table, the dynamic array formula will adjust accordingly if it involves a structured reference.
I just wanted to underscore the usefulness (the value) of that feature. It makes it easy to use a combination of an Excel Table, one or two Dynamic Arrays functions (notably UNIQUE, FILTER and SORT) to create Data Validation lists that are themselves dynamic and growing.
I've attached a simple example (created in response to another posting dealing with Data Validation, where the desire had been to create Data Validation lists where the second selection would change based on the first). This example uses a table containing first and last names; the user can select a first name (with data validation against a list of unique first names), followed by selection of last names only of those whose first name is the same as the first selection. The sheet includes commentary on the formulas.
I use this kind of data validation structure in my personal budget and expense tracking spreadsheet, for expense categories and sub-categories. It allows me to add new sub-categories and major categories on an ad hoc basis.
It's also useful in generating summary reports, almost like your very own pivot table....
lots of applications.
mathetesHi Mathetes, Do not understand how your Data Validation reply fixes the issue.
Used Filter function formula to create results in A2:A30. Now highlighted A2:A30 to Insert Table and received #SPILL! in A2.
Issue: How do I insert/create a table (Table1) for A2:A30?
Table1 Refers To =Sheet1!$A$2:$A$30
Regards
You wrote:
Do not understand how your Data Validation reply fixes the issue.
Used Filter function formula to create results in A2:A30. Now highlighted A2:A30 to Insert Table and received #SPILL! in A2.
Issue: How do I insert/create a table (Table1) for A2:A30?
Table1 Refers To =Sheet1!$A$2:$A$30
And I don't really understand your question, why you might've expected my Data Validation reply to be applicable to what you're seeking to do. It was a demonstration of something else that did help the original poster.
If the response from SergeiBaklan has met your need, that's great.
If not, let me suggest that you start a new thread rather than building on this one from six months ago, and give a more complete description of what you are facing, if possible attaching a copy of your Excel file.
mathetes Hi Mathetes, thank you very much for your response and for the example attached. That helps a lot to understand how eveything works.
Best Regards.
Aspi.
