Excel #NAME? error
Excel does not recognize a word in the formula: a misspelled function, text without quotes or a function in another language.
Why it appears
- Misspelled function: =SUMM(A1:A5) instead of =SUM(A1:A5).
- You pasted a Spanish formula into English Excel (BUSCARV instead of VLOOKUP).
- Text without quotes: =IF(A1>5,High,Low).
- A new function (XLOOKUP, FILTER) in an older Excel version.
How to fix it
- Start typing the function and pick it from Excel’s list.
- Translate the formula to your Excel’s language with the formula translator.
- Put all text in double quotes.
Gives the error
=IF(B2>=7,Aprobado,Reprobado)
Fixed
=IF(B2>=7,"Aprobado","Reprobado")
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Practice it
Solve the exercise on the sheet; it is checked instantly. See all lessons · Formula translator
Fix it: #NAME? in an IF
Without quotes, Excel thinks Passed is the name of something that does not exist and answers #NAME?. Text always goes in double quotes.
Fix the formula so it shows "Passed" or "Failed".
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Student | Grade | Result | |
| 2 | Ana | 9 | ||
| 3 | Luis | 6 | ||
| 4 | Sofía | 7.5 | ||
| 5 | Diego | 5 | ||
| 6 |
Tip: while typing, click a cell or drag across several to insert their reference. F4 anchors the reference with $.
Frequently asked questions
- What does #NAME? mean in Excel?
- Excel does not recognize a word in the formula: a misspelled function, text without quotes or a function in another language.
- How do I get rid of the #NAME? error?
- Start typing the function and pick it from Excel’s list. Translate the formula to your Excel’s language with the formula translator. Put all text in double quotes.
- What is #NAME? called in Spanish Excel?
- Spanish Excel shows it as #¿NOMBRE?.