COLUMN Function (Gnumeric)
Learn the COLUMN function in Gnumeric: Returns the internal column number of a reference.
Reference checked: Examples have not been run in this spreadsheet application. How we verify guides
The COLUMN function in Gnumeric is used for this task: Returns the internal column number of a reference. Find the column number of cell C9.
This guide explains how to read the formula, reproduce a concrete example, interpret its result and recognize common input mistakes.
Syntax and arguments
The worked formula below shows the argument order used for this example. Consult the linked software-specific function reference for optional parameters and edge cases.
Gnumeric formulas normally use commas (,) between arguments. These examples are written for Gnumeric rather than copied unchanged from LibreOffice Calc.
Worked example
=COLUMN(C9)
Expected result: 3.
Why it works: Find the column number of cell C9.
How to use it in your own spreadsheet
- Identify the cells or inputs that correspond to the sample values above.
- Enter the formula in an empty cell, changing the references or literal values to match your sheet.
- Compare the output with a manual check on a small known example.
- Extend the formula to a larger dataset only after you understand the result.
Common problems and practical checks
- Use the correct lookup column or return range, and use exact-match options where appropriate.
- Check for duplicate keys, leading spaces and numbers stored as text in lookup data.
- A pasted formula may produce an error when it uses the other program’s argument separator or unsupported options.
Related functions
Documentation and verification
- Gnumeric official function reference
- Gnumeric function catalog
- The function name was checked against the official reference. A comparable example passed in LibreOffice Calc 25.2, but the example was not executed in this application. Confirm on your installed version before depending on it.