Excel formula: Unique values

Generic formula

=UNIQUE(data)

Explanation

To extract a list of unique values from a set of data, you can use the UNIQUE function. In the example shown, the formula in D5 is:

=UNIQUE(B5:B16)

which outputs the 7 unique values seen in D5:D11.

How this formula works

This example uses the UNIQUE function, which is fully automatic. When UNIQUE is provided with the range B5:B16, which contains 12 values, it returns the 7 unique values seen in D5:D11.

UNIQUE is a dynamic function. If any data in B5:B16 changes, the output from UNIQUE will update immediately.

Dynamic source range

UNIQUE won't automatically adjust the source range if data is added or deleted. To feed UNIQUE a dynamic range that will automatically resize as needed, you can use an Excel Table, or create a dynamic named range with a formula.

UNIQUE is a new function available in Office 365 only.

Author

Dave Bruns

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Related functions

Excel UNIQUE Function

The Excel UNIQUE function returns a list of unique values in a list or range. Values can be text, numbers, dates, times, etc.

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