Matching Data from Two Excel Sheets

Using VLOOKUP to Match Data

The VLOOKUP formula in Excel is designed to match and pull data between two spreadsheets using a unique identifier. To use VLOOKUP, you specify the value to look up, which is then searched in a table array on another sheet. By default, VLOOKUP returns an approximate match, but you can set it to find an exact match if necessary. This function is essential for consolidating data from different sources.

Comparing Excel Sheets with Formulas

To compare and match data across Excel sheets, you can employ various formulas. These can reveal differences or assist in matching data by creating a set of conditions that identify matching entries across tables. Formulas offer a direct, in-built approach to match data without additional software.

Conditional Formatting for Data Matching

Conditional formatting in Excel provides a visual method to compare and match data. By setting specific conditions that highlight matching or differing data points, you can easily identify how two sheets correspond with each other. This method is particularly effective for quick visual assessments of matched data.

Third-Party Tools for Advanced Matching

For more complex matching tasks, third-party tools like Synkronizer and Ablebits offer advanced features for comparing, merging, and updating Excel files. These tools can handle various content types and formats, and offer detailed control over the comparison process, including filtering and highlighting differences.

Synkronizer for Comprehensive Data Matching

Synkronizer Excel add-in specializes in a comprehensive comparison of Excel files. It provides functionalities like worksheet comparison, database comparison, and allows for detailed comparisons including formats and comments. Synkronizer not only highlights differences but also updates sheets to sync data efficiently.

Ablebits Compare Sheets for Reviewing Differences

The Ablebits Compare Sheets add-in simplifies the review process with its Review Differences mode, which displays all differences between sheets at once. This tool enables users to manage discrepancies individually, ensuring a thorough and accurate match between data sets.

Online Services for Sheet Comparison

Online services such as XLComparator and CloudyExcel facilitate the comparison of two Excel workbooks. These platforms are accessible as they allow users to upload files and display differences directly in the browser, offering a convenient solution for matching data without installing additional software.

Common Use Cases

• 
  Consolidating customer contact information from separate marketing and sales Excel databases
• 
  Comparing monthly expenses data across different departments for budget analysis
• 
  Validating inventory records by matching product IDs from the warehouse and retail outlet sheets
• 
  Synchronizing employee attendance records between HR and payroll department spreadsheets
• 
  Detecting discrepancies in supplier invoices by matching order IDs and amounts with the company’s purchase order records

Excel vs. Sourcetable: Streamlining Data Integration and Analysis

Discover the evolution of spreadsheets with Sourcetable, a platform that simplifies data consolidation from various sources. In contrast to Excel's manual data import, Sourcetable automatically aggregates information, optimizing productivity for data-driven professionals.

Sourcetable elevates the user experience with an AI copilot, a feature absent in Excel. This innovative assistant accelerates formula creation and template design, offering a conversational interface that enhances efficiency and accessibility for users of all skill levels.

Embrace the future of data handling with Sourcetable's intuitive spreadsheet-like interface, tailored for seamless querying and analysis. Experience a leap in functionality, leaving behind Excel's traditional, less integrated approach to data management.