Dynamic Named Range w/o Using VBA

Hello,

I have a dataset that is downloaded. It comes in a series of tables with a cell that identifies which table. I can search for "Late Finish Date" and that tells me which row it's table starts at. And, I can search for the next table which tells me the last row of "Early Start Date" and the first row of "Early Finish Date." If you look at my spreadsheet, you'll see the row number where I found "Early Start Date" in CELL E4 (Value=922). The row where I found "Early Finish Date" is in CELL E5.

I want to use those values to redefine my named range when I refresh the dataset. In the Name Manager tool, I added this formula: = OFFSET(A1,(E4),1) : OFFSET(A1,(E5-2),4). Excel changes it to: = OFFSET('NewComparison (002)'!A1,('NewComparison (002)'!E4),1) : OFFSET('NewComparison (002)'!A1,('NewComparison (002)'!E5-2),4). This appears to work. It selects the right cells when I am using the tool. But, I can't get it to work with a formula, even with a simple INDEX function. The range name doesn't show up in that box on the top left of the spreadsheet.


Is there another way?

Thanks

Will you please attach a sample Excel workbook? We are not able to work with or manipulate a picture of one and nobody wants to have to recreate your data from scratch.

1. Make sure that your sample data are REPRESENTATIVE of your real data. The use of unrepresentative data is very frustrating and can lead to long delays in reaching a solution.

2. Make sure that your desired results are also shown (mock up the results manually).

3. Make sure that all confidential data is removed or replaced with dummy data first (e.g. names, addresses, E-mails, etc.).

4. Try to avoid using merged cells as they cause lots of problems.

Unfortunately the attachment icon doesn't work at the moment, so to attach an Excel file you have to do the following: just before posting, scroll down to Go Advanced and then scroll down to Manage Attachments. Now follow the instructions at the top of that screen.

Please pay particular attention to point 2 (above): without an idea of your intended outcomes, it is often very difficult to offer appropriate advice.

Originally Posted by shawjohn42

..... It selects the right cells when I am using the tool. But, I can't get it to work with a formula, even with a simple INDEX function. The range name doesn't show up in that box on the top left of the spreadsheet.


Is there another way?

Thanks

Dynamic named ranges (and other named formulas) do not show up in that box.

When typing your INDEX formula and you are at the point where the dynamic named range goes hit the F3 function key. You will have a list that includes the dnrs. Click on the one you want and Excel will enter it into the formula.

Does this help?

One option, create a dynamic named range for the raw data table:
Raw_Data

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Then use it to create the AFD, etc.'s

Bens_AFD:

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Another detail regarding the DNR definition in post #1:

Try setting the first address argument of the OFFSET function to absolute

= OFFSET($A$1,(E4),1) : OFFSET($A$1,(E5-2),4)

Otherwise that address will change relative to where you are entering your INDEX formula and where active cell was when you defined the DNR in Name Manager.