Question

Name the error which occurs when Excel doesn’t recognize a ‘Text’ formula. Give any two solutions to correct it.

Hint:

Use the function autocomplete drop-down in Excel (starts when you type =) to avoid spelling mistakes and \#NAME? errors.

Answer 1

When Excel doesn’t recognize a formula (due to incorrect function name or spelling mistake), it returns a \#NAME? error. Causes:

• Misspelled function name (e.g., =SMM(A1:A5) instead of =SUM)
• Text not enclosed in double quotes
• Using undefined names or ranges

Solutions:

1. Correct the spelling of the function or ensure the name is defined in the Name Manager.
2. Enclose text values in double quotes inside formulas, e.g., =IF(A1=\"Yes\",1,0)