Can Excel's INDEX function return array?

Question

If the data in the range A1:A4 is as follows:

Apple
Banana
Orange
Strawberry

Then INDEX can be used to individual

Answer 1

Correct

Update 3

You should using array formula:

For = INDEX(A1:A4,{2;3}) write = INDEX(A1:A4,ROW($A$2:$A$3))

For using array formula, (1) select the range of cells you want return results, vertically (for example B1:B2) and then press (2) F2 and enter above formula, then (3) press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.

Update

Explain:

You can controlling row_num and column_num parts of INDEX with array formulas for returning more specially wanted results.

There is two approach to returning array formula results:

• (I)

  1. Select the range that you want show returned results.
  2. Press F2
  3. Type your array form formula.
  4. Then Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.

Example:

=INDEX($A$1:$A$4,SMALL(IF($B$2=$A$1:$A$4,ROW($A$1:$A$4)-ROW($A$1)+1),ROW($A:$A)))

• (II)

  1. Enter the array form formula in first cell you want showing returned results (Then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter), then extend the formula.

Example:

=INDEX($A$1:$A$4,SMALL(IF($B$2=$A$1:$A$4,ROW($A$1:$A$4)-ROW($A$1)+1),ROW(A1)))

Conclusion

INDEX formula works in array form.

You need enter row_num or column_num in an array. for this use suitable array formulas as: IF, SMALL, CHOOSE. Note that MATCH is not array form formula.

Temporary sample file (for 30 days): book.xlsx