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How to Count the Number of Columns in a Range

When you work with a large dataset, you may wonder how many columns are in a range. This is relatively easy and we can use the COLUMNS function to figure it out. However, if you want to check which column a number or a text string is in a range, you will need the COLUMN function.

In summary, the COLUMNS function tells you how many columns a range has, while the COLUMN function tells which column a value is in.

Example: You are working with a dataset with the product in column A, the DOB in column B, and the amount sold in column C.

Formula 1: To count how many columns the range of A1:C12 has

=COLUMNS(A1:C12)

The result returns 3, and the range has 3 columns.

Formula 2: To figure which column a number is in, e.g., 529,944

= COLUMN(C5)

Type the formula in a cell and find the number in column C (C5). The result returns 3, and the number is in column 3.

Notes: The COLUMNS function

Formula:

= COLUMNS(array)

Explanations:

The array is required. The number of columns in the data ranges you are looking for.

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