Fix #NAME? Error in Excel

This error occurs when Excel doesn't recognize text in a formula. Usually caused by misspelled function names or missing quotation marks.

Why this happens

  • Misspelled function name
  • Missing quotation marks around text
  • Undefined named range
  • Function not available in your Excel version

How to fix it

  • Check spelling of function names
  • Add quotation marks around text values
  • Define the named range or correct the name
  • Use an alternative function for older versions

#NAME? spelling and locale

  • Typo in function name — compare to this directory spelling.
  • Missing quotes around text strings in formulas.
  • Localized workbook — see [international function names](/guides/international-excel-function-names/).

Functions that often show this error

  • INDIRECT: Returns the reference specified by a text string. References are immediately evaluated to display their contents.