Google Sheets

How to Use the MAKEARRAY Function in Google Sheets

Jitendra 4 weeks agoLast Updated: November 27, 2023

0 3 6 minutes read

Table of Contents

Introduction

Google Sheets is a powerful tool for organizing and analyzing data. One of the handy functions it offers is MAKEARRAY. This function allows users to generate arrays, which are collections of values, in a structured manner. In this article, we will walk you through the basics of using the MAKEARRAY function, providing simple examples and practical applications.

In this article, you will learn the MAKEARRAY function and how to use it in Google Sheets. This function is meant to be used with the LAMBDA function. The MAKEARRAY formula applies the LAMBDA function to the range of cells you specify. The uniqueness of the MAKEARRAY formula is that the LAMBDA formula uses rows’ and columns’ numbers, which are not Google Sheets’ ones but those of the array you want to make as input values

What is the MAKEARRAY function in Google Sheets?

The MAKEARRY function is beneficial when you need to create a table in which you use either of a cell’s row and column numbers in the table as input values for some calculation or when you want to spread something like texts or symbols in a specified range.

When to Use the MAKEARRAY Function

The MAKEARRAY function is particularly useful when you want to create arrays of data with specific dimensions. This can be helpful in scenarios where you need to organize data in rows and columns, such as creating tables, grids, or organizing survey results.

How to insert the MAKEARRAY formula in Google Sheets

Type “=MAKEARRAY” or go to “Insert” → “Function” → “Array” → “MAKEARRAY”.
Define the array size you want to make by inputting “rows” and “columns”.
Enter a LAMBDA function with placeholders and logic.
Press the “Enter” key.

Syntax:

MAKEARRAY(rows, columns, LAMBDA)

rows: The number of rows to return.
columns: The number of columns to return.
LAMBDA: A LAMBDA that’s applied to create the array.
- Syntax: LAMBDA(name1, name2, formula_expression)
- Requirements:
  - The LAMBDA must have exactly 2 name arguments along with a formula_expression which uses those names. When applying the LAMBDA, name1 resolves to the current row_index and name2 resolves to the current column_index.

Example:

1. Example:

As a simple example, assume you need to create a 5×5 Times table in Google Sheets. Use the MAKEARRAY formula instead of typing each calculation and answer in the array one by one. Once you type the MAKEARRAY formula in a cell, it automatically spreads the results in the 5×5 array. Also, this example explains how the formula works visually – you can see multiplication factors in a cell correspond to the cell’s row and column numbers.

Step 1: Open Your Google Sheet:

Step 2: Select a Cell and Enter the Function

Step 3: Press Enter: Hit the Enter key to apply the function

2. Example:

Look at the following screenshot. This is another example of the MAKEARRAY function, in which we use text as input values. We defined the size of the array as 5×5 and gave the LAMBDA an order to put “SAINTCODERS” in each cell in the specified range.

How The MAKEARRAY Formula Works With Text Input In Google Sheets

Tips for Optimization

When working with the MAKEARRAY function in Google Sheets, optimizing your approach can lead to more efficient and effective data management. Here are some tips to make the most out of this powerful function:

Dynamic Sizing:

Instead of hardcoding the number of rows and columns, consider using cell references. This way, you can dynamically adjust the array size based on changing criteria. For example
=MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, ...)
Where A1 and B1 are cells containing the desired row and column counts.

Combine with Other Functions:

- Experiment with combining MAKEARRAY with other functions. For instance, using SEQUENCE, RAND, or RANDBETWEEN in conjunction with MAKEARRAY allows you to generate more complex datasets. This can be particularly useful for simulations and random data generation.
- =MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, SEQUENCE(C1, D1, E1, F1))
- Here, SEQUENCE generates a specific pattern within the array.

Conditional Data Generation:

If you need to populate the array with data based on specific criteria, you can incorporate logical functions like IF alongside MAKEARRAY. This enables you to create arrays with conditional values, providing even greater flexibility in your data organization.
=MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, IF(C1="Condition", Value_if_true, Value_if_false))
In this example, if the condition specified in cell C1 is met, the array will be populated with Value_if_true; otherwise, it will be populated with Value_if_false.

Avoid Overloading with Data:

While MAKEARRAY is a powerful function, it’s important not to overload your spreadsheet with excessive amounts of data. Large arrays can slow down processing speed and may even lead to spreadsheet crashes. Consider if there are more efficient ways to represent or analyze your data.

Experiment and Learn:

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of parameters and functions. The best way to master the MAKEARRAY function is through hands-on practice. Try out various scenarios and observe the results to gain a deeper understanding of its capabilities.

Documentation and Comments:

If you’re working on a complex spreadsheet with multiple formulas, it’s a good practice to provide comments or documentation. This can help you and others understand the purpose and functionality of the MAKEARRAY function in the context of your specific application.

Real-World Application:

The MAKEARRAY function in Google Sheets finds practical application in various real-world scenarios, where structured data organization is crucial for effective decision-making and analysis. Here are a few examples of how this function can be used in practical situations:

1. Survey Analysis:

Imagine you’re conducting a customer satisfaction survey with multiple questions and responses. Using MAKEARRAY, you can efficiently organize the survey results. Each row can represent a respondent, and each column can correspond to a different question. This structured layout allows for easy analysis and comparison of responses.

2. Inventory Management:

For businesses managing inventory, keeping track of product quantities, prices, and categories is essential. The MAKEARRAY function can be employed to create a structured table that provides an organized overview of available products.
Here, each row can represent a different product, while the columns may contain information like product name, quantity, and price.

3. Project Planning:

In project management, creating Gantt charts and project timelines is a common practice. MAKEARRAY can be used to generate a grid where each row represents a task, and each column corresponds to a specific time period. This structured format simplifies project tracking and resource allocation.

4. Classroom Gradebook:

In an educational setting, teachers often need to keep track of students’ grades for various assignments and exams. MAKEARRAY can help create a grid where each row represents a student, and each column corresponds to a different assessment. This format facilitates easy grade entry and calculation.

5. Financial Budgeting:

When managing personal or business finances, organizing budgetary information is crucial. The MAKEARRAY function can be used to create a structured table with rows representing different expense categories and columns representing specific time periods. This format simplifies budget tracking and analysis.

Conclusion

The MAKEARRAY function in Google Sheets proves to be a versatile and powerful tool for creating structured arrays efficiently. By understanding its syntax and exploring various applications, users can streamline data organization and analysis. From survey data to inventory management and project planning, MAKEARRAY provides a flexible solution for a wide range of real-world scenarios.

With the ability to dynamically adjust array sizes, combine with other functions, and generate conditional data, MAKEARRAY empowers users to handle complex data sets with ease. However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid overloading spreadsheets with excessive data, as this can lead to performance issues.

Through experimentation and practice, users can master the MAKEARRAY function and unlock its full potential in their data management endeavors. By incorporating this function into their toolkit, students, professionals, and data enthusiasts alike can enhance their efficiency and accuracy in Google Sheets.

FAQ’s

Q: Can I use cell references for rows and columns with MAKEARRAY?

A: Yes, you can use cell references as arguments for the rows and cols parameters. This allows you to dynamically adjust the array size based on changing criteria. For example, =MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, …), where A1 and B1 are cells containing the desired row and column counts.

Q: Can I combine MAKEARRAY with other functions?

A: Absolutely! Combining MAKEARRAY with functions like SEQUENCE, RAND, or RANDBETWEEN can help you generate more complex datasets. For example, =MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, SEQUENCE(C1, D1, E1, F1)) combines SEQUENCE to generate a specific pattern within the array.

Q: How can I create conditional data with MAKEARRAY?

A: You can use logical functions like IF in combination with MAKEARRAY to generate arrays with conditional data. For example, =MAKEARRAY(A1, B1, IF(C1=”Condition”, Value_if_true, Value_if_false)). If the condition specified in cell C1 is met, the array will be populated with Value_if_true; otherwise, it will be populated with Value_if_false.