Search in Excel - how to use the search function

Excel is ideal for managing a lot of data. However, large tables in particular can quickly become confusing. If you are then looking for a specific entry, this can take a lot of time without the right tricks. Learn how to use the search function to shorten your search.

How to open the search function in Excel

If you want to open the search function in Excel, it works either from the menu bar or by using a keyboard shortcut.

1. Call the tab "Start".
2. Click on the magnifying glass icon on the right side of the menu bar and select the item "Search" from the context menu.
3. The search mask window will then open, allowing you to specify your search criteria and search your document.

Instead of using the menu, you can also open the search function using the key combination [CTRL] + [F].

Search by formula - what you need to know

Alternatively, you can also search an Excel document using a formula. To do this, simply enter the command: =SUCH(search text;search range;[first character]) in a free line.

• Search text: The search text is the string you want to search for and a required argument for the formula to work.
• Search range: Using the search range, you define the range in which to search for the search text. Besides text, you can also use a cell reference here. The search range, like the search text, is a required argument in the formula.
• First character: Here you can define from which character the search should start. As a result, you get a position marker in the form of a number. Unlike the other two arguments, this is an optional argument.