Database function help

Hi all,

Need some help regarding usage of database functions in Excel. I am aware of the inputs and outputs of the formula. However i get a problem in applying criteria which contains string values. Also, Kindly explain about the syntax ="=xyz" used for applying string criterias.

Thanks in advance.

Hi
The criteria for an Advanced Filter is normally entered into another cell on your worksheet. That cell is then referenced in your Advanced Filter Function. The Advanced Filter Function needs to have an "=" with the value so that it knows what to filter. So in your example you are filtering on a value of "xyz" and the only way to ensure that the cell containing the filter criteria retains the "=" sign is to enclose it in quotes such as ="=xyz". If we just try and type in "=123" then excel will just try and treat it as a formula and try and calculate the cell. You could equally have a criteria of =">123" for example which would display ">123" in the criteria cell.
Hope this helps.
Tony

Hi Tony,

Thanks for your quick response. I tried the formula earlier but dint get the expected output. However I tried the same formula in another situation and it worked like charm. However your reply cleared my doubts about using the "=" in criteria. Thanks :-)