IF vs IFS
IF picks between two results; IFS checks several conditions in order without nesting.
| IF | IFS | |
|---|---|---|
| Available in | Every version | Excel 2019, 2021 and 365 |
| Outcomes | Two (more with nested IFs) | As many as condition-result pairs |
| "Otherwise" case | The third argument | A final TRUE condition |
| If nothing matches | Returns FALSE or value_if_false | #N/A |
Syntax and example
IF
=IF(logical_test, value_if_true, [value_if_false])
=IF(B2>=7,"Passed","Failed")
Returns one value when a condition is true and another when it is false. It is the basis of logic in Excel.
IFS
=IFS(logical_test1, value_if_true1, [logical_test2, value_if_true2], …)
=IFS(B2>=90,"A",B2>=80,"B",TRUE,"C")
Checks conditions in order and returns the result of the first one that is true. It replaces nested IFs.
Which one to use?
For two options, IF. From three on, IFS reads better; end with TRUE to cover the rest.
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Practice it
Solve the exercise on the sheet; it is checked instantly. See all lessons · Formula translator
IFS
IFS(test1, value1, test2, value2…) replaces nested IFs: it returns the value of the first test that is true. End with TRUE as "in any other case".
In C2, assign "A" for 90 or more, "B" for 80 or more and "C" otherwise, using IFS.
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Student | Score | Level | |
| 2 | Ana | 95 | ||
| 3 | Luis | 82 | ||
| 4 | Sofía | 90 | ||
| 5 | Diego | 64 | ||
| 6 | Valeria | 79 | ||
| 7 | Mateo | 80 | ||
| 8 |
Tip: while typing, click a cell or drag across several to insert their reference. F4 anchors the reference with $.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between IF and IFS?
- IF picks between two results; IFS checks several conditions in order without nesting.
- When should I use IF or IFS?
- For two options, IF. From three on, IFS reads better; end with TRUE to cover the rest.